This biography illustrates the accomplishments of a woman who developed a system of classifying stars and who-to this day-holds the record for identifying more stars than anyone else in the world. In 1925, Annie Jump Cannon became the first woman to be honored by Oxford University with a doctor of science degree. In addition to noting the achievements of the astronomer and her contributions to science, the book details Cannon's work and system of ranking stars by heat.
Carole Gerber is a poet, a children's book author, and a freelance writer. In addition to teaching at the middle school and high school levels, she served as an adjunct professor of journalism at Ohio State University. Gerber has also worked as an editor of a company magazine and written elementary textbooks, magazine articles, speeches, and education materials. She became intrigued by Cannon's story when working on a social studies project. After receiving a BS in English, she earned an MA in journalism from Ohio State University. Her accolades include an Outstanding Science Trade Book award from Children's Book Council and National Science Teachers Association, a John Burroughs Nature Writing Award, and an APEX Grand Award. In addition to writing, Gerber sponsors children through World Vision, a Christian relief organization, and volunteers as a tour guide for children at a local nature preserve and farm. She enjoys gardening, reading, traveling, and practicing yoga in her spare time. The mother of two grown daughters, Gerber lives in Powell, Ohio, with her husband.