Author: Dennis Brindell Fradin (N/A website)
illustrated by Cynthia von Buhler http://www.cynthiavonbuhler.com/
Publisher: Mondo Publication New York, 2003
ISBN:1-59336-006-1
Oil paint on gesso
Nicolaus Copernicus studied to be a clergyman and and worked as a physician his entire life. In his free time he studied the heavens and wrote one of the most important books in history.
Personal Opinion:
Besides giving a great introduction to Nicolaus Copernicus, this biography brings up a few mind bending conversational pieces for the 7th grade revolutionary science curriculum. Imagine studying something, on your own, and coming to the conclusion that the common idea, in this case that the Earth is the center of everything, is wrong. Imagine fearing your life if your idea is revealed. The small detail that Nicolaus Copernicus almost didn't publish his book, and that he died hours after it was published is ominous and will be the inspiration students need to discuss where science would be if discoveries like Copernicus' were not made. Can an organization, bureaucratic or faith based, control socital ideas and discovery? Does that or could that happen now?
The brilliant oil paintings reflect the richness of this era, taking up the entire page with strokes painted on gesso. Illustrating the small details of his obsession with the skies.
7th grade State Standards
7.10 Students analyze the historical developments of the Scientific Revolution and
its lasting effect on religious, political, and cultural institutions.
2. Understand the significance of the new scientific theories (e.g., those of Copernicus,
Galileo, Kepler, Newton) and the significance of new inventions (e.g., the telescope,
microscope, thermometer, barometer).
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