From a tender age, Nancy Grace Roman harbored an unwavering fascination with the stars. The ever-shifting backdrop of her life, due to her father’s profession, meant frequent relocations. Yet, wherever they settled, Nancy would swiftly shift her gaze upwards, always finding comfort in the constellations. Living in an era where societal norms often dictated the paths women could take, many of Nancy’s contemporaries aspired to professions like nursing. However, Nancy was not to be swayed from her celestial aspirations.

Opting for the path less traveled, she pursued her ambitions and secured a coveted spot at Swarthmore College in Pennsylvania—a progressive institution that admitted women during a time when many did not.

Nancy’s journey was marked by audacity and brilliance. Graduating with a degree in astronomy in 1946, she navigated the male-centric world of her profession with tenacity. Nancy’s indomitable spirit saw her make significant contributions to our understanding of the Milky Way. When she joined NASA, her stellar trajectory culminated as she assumed the esteemed role of the first female Chief of Astronomy. Among her many accolades, Nancy’s pivotal role in the conception and realization of the Hubble Space Telescope stands out—a monumental endeavor that has since become instrumental in myriad research projects.

This biography underscores the potency of persistence and fortitude. It serves as a compelling testament to women’s capabilities and a call for society to nurture and uplift their ambitions. It conveys the importance of believing in oneself and pushing boundaries.

Accompanying the narrative are Gayle Cobb’s illustrations, which are nothing short of mesmerizing. The artistry she brings to the pages draws readers into Nancy’s world. However, I felt that the font size was a tad small.

As an astronomy enthusiast, I was thoroughly engrossed by the tale and the visuals. Her Eyes Were on the Stars seamlessly melds the essence of an autobiography with the brevity of a short story. A captivating read that is sure to inspire and enlighten young readers.

Pages: 36 | ISBN : 1955791511