Joan Procter, Dragon Doctor

The Woman Who Loved Reptiles

Illustrated by Felicita Sala
$8.99 US
RH Childrens Books | Dragonfly Books
48 per carton
On sale Feb 21, 2023 | 978-0-593-56885-9
Age 4-8 years
Reading Level: Lexile AD800L | Fountas & Pinnell O
Sales rights: US, Canada, Open Mkt
A fascinating picture book biography of a pioneering female scientist who loved reptiles!

While other girls played with dolls, Joan preferred the company of reptiles. She carried her favorite lizard with her everywhere--she even brought a crocodile to school!

When Joan grew older, she became the Curator of Reptiles at the British Museum. She went on to design the Reptile House at the London Zoo, including a home for the rumored-to-be-vicious komodo dragons. There, just like when she was a little girl, Joan hosted children's tea parties--with her komodo dragon as the guest of honor.

With a lively text and vibrant illustrations, scientist and writer Patricia Valdez and illustrator Felicita Sala bring to life Joan Procter's inspiring story of passion and determination.
  • NOMINEE | 2020
    Illinois State Library Monarch Award
  • NOMINEE | 2020
    Utah Children's Book Award
  • AWARD | 2019
    NCSS-CBC Notable Children's Trade Books in the Field of Social Studies
  • RECOMMENDED | 2019
    NCTE Orbis Pictus Award for Outstanding Nonfiction for Children
  • NOMINEE | 2019
    Pennsylvania Young Readers Choice Award
  • SELECTION | 2018
    Chicago Public Library's Best of the Best Books
additional book photo
additional book photo
additional book photo
"Whimsical artwork and an empowering story make this biography of a lesser-known woman scientist truly charming."—Booklist, starred review

"An inspirational biography with exciting depictions of a variety of reptiles, including a pet Komodo dragon, that will keep any child interested—whether reading on their own or with a group."—School Library Journal, starred review

"Valdez paints a portrait of a unique woman whose love for reptiles developed into a gratifying career."—Publishers Weekly, starred review

Joan Procter, Dragon Doctor - Read Aloud Picture Book | Brightly Storytime

Classroom Activities for Joan Procter, Dragon Doctor

Classroom activities supplement discussion and traditional lessons with group projects and creative tasks. Can be used in pre-existing units and lessons, or as stand-alone.

(Please note: the guide displayed here is the most recently uploaded version; while unlikely, any page citation discrepancies between the guide and book is likely due to pagination differences between a book’s different formats.)

About

A fascinating picture book biography of a pioneering female scientist who loved reptiles!

While other girls played with dolls, Joan preferred the company of reptiles. She carried her favorite lizard with her everywhere--she even brought a crocodile to school!

When Joan grew older, she became the Curator of Reptiles at the British Museum. She went on to design the Reptile House at the London Zoo, including a home for the rumored-to-be-vicious komodo dragons. There, just like when she was a little girl, Joan hosted children's tea parties--with her komodo dragon as the guest of honor.

With a lively text and vibrant illustrations, scientist and writer Patricia Valdez and illustrator Felicita Sala bring to life Joan Procter's inspiring story of passion and determination.

Awards

  • NOMINEE | 2020
    Illinois State Library Monarch Award
  • NOMINEE | 2020
    Utah Children's Book Award
  • AWARD | 2019
    NCSS-CBC Notable Children's Trade Books in the Field of Social Studies
  • RECOMMENDED | 2019
    NCTE Orbis Pictus Award for Outstanding Nonfiction for Children
  • NOMINEE | 2019
    Pennsylvania Young Readers Choice Award
  • SELECTION | 2018
    Chicago Public Library's Best of the Best Books

Photos

additional book photo
additional book photo
additional book photo

Praise

"Whimsical artwork and an empowering story make this biography of a lesser-known woman scientist truly charming."—Booklist, starred review

"An inspirational biography with exciting depictions of a variety of reptiles, including a pet Komodo dragon, that will keep any child interested—whether reading on their own or with a group."—School Library Journal, starred review

"Valdez paints a portrait of a unique woman whose love for reptiles developed into a gratifying career."—Publishers Weekly, starred review

Media

Joan Procter, Dragon Doctor - Read Aloud Picture Book | Brightly Storytime

Guides

Classroom Activities for Joan Procter, Dragon Doctor

Classroom activities supplement discussion and traditional lessons with group projects and creative tasks. Can be used in pre-existing units and lessons, or as stand-alone.

(Please note: the guide displayed here is the most recently uploaded version; while unlikely, any page citation discrepancies between the guide and book is likely due to pagination differences between a book’s different formats.)