Bibliography
Heiligman, D. (2009). Charles and Emma: The Darwins’ leap of faith. New York: Henry Holt and Company.
268 pages
Plot
In this biography, Heiligman takes readers into the life of Charles and Emma Darwin. Beginning shortly after his journey on the Beagle, Charles Darwin writes a list weighing the pros and cons of marriage. In one instance he writes better than a dog. Despite his concerns, Darwin concludes that he should marry. Such begins Heiligman’s account of Darwin’s life, his marriage to his cousin Emma, and his subsequent scientific exploration in evolution of plants, animals and man. At odds with himself, his wife, and the religious teachings of the time, Darwin must trust in himself, the love of his wife, and man’s thirst for knowledge to forever change the way we view the origin of species.
Review
Charles and Emma is a great introduction for tweens not only of an interesting man, but also to a more mature form of biographies. Heiligman’s book takes the reader into the life of Charles Darwin, his beliefs, fears, successes, and shortcomings. The author is careful to ensure that readers understand Darwin’s belief, often reminding readers of the social mores of the time as well as Darwin’s own concerns. Nevertheless, Heiligman’s prose is wonderful to read. She is able to faithfully tell the Darwin’s tale, while engaging the reader with interesting anecdotes, true emotion, and in a style which is easy to follow and understand.
Genre
Biography
Reading Level/Interest Level
This book would appeal to readers in 7th – 9th grade.
Similar Content
Other biographies including:
I Am Scout by Charles J. Shields
Adventurous Women: Eight True Stories About Women Who Made a Difference by Penny Colman
Personal thoughts
I thought the book was well written. The author does an excellent job portraying Darwin’s hesitancies in publishing a book that would overthrow the creation story that is still debated today.
Unlike the other biography referenced in this blog, this biography is intended for older audiences in context and format. This was purposefully done to see the differences in biographies for Tweens.
Subjects/themes
Religion
Science
Biography
19th Century
Evolution
Awards
National Book Award Finalist
Michael L. Printz Honor Book
Series information
No known sequels
Character names/descriptions
Charles Darwin: Naturalist, who is constantly striving to learn and perfect his ideas about evolution
Emma Darwin: Charles’ wife, concerned of Charles’ lack of religious beliefs and his placement in the afterlife. Otherwise a very loving and supportive wife, and often was Charles’ editor for his books.
Annotation
He believed that species change due to environmental factors which affect physical attributes; she believed that species were created by a higher power to serve a higher purpose. Read how Charles and Emma Darwin make a leap of faith.
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