April 2019 Book of the Month | A Julia Eccleshare Pick of the Month April 2019
The inspiring story of Mary Anning who, born at the end of the eighteenth century, fought against all the odds to become a pioneering scientist and fossil hunter. Inspired by her father who took her out on fossil hunting expeditions on the cliffs and beaches around Lyme Regis, Mary was fascinated by the beauty of the finds and by what they said about the past.
Her exceptional curiosity was matched by incredible courage which led her to take dare-devil risks as she searched for rare examples. She also knew their worth and was never shy in selling them well to the many visitors to the area who came to wonder. Anthea Simmons tells Mary’s story as an exciting adventure and also as a rousing story of what an intelligent and brave woman can do.

An irresistible narrative from a unique historical character who broke the mould. This is the tale of Mary Anning, the 19th century fossil finder and scientist who defied convention to seek out incredible treasures on Dorset’s Jurassic coast.
| Suitable For: | |
| Other Genres: | |
| Recommendations: |
Set against the backdrop of the iconic cliffs of the Jurassic Coast, Anthea Simmons skilfully unravels the childhood of one of history’s most fascinating figures.
An inspirational and intriguing insight into the life of Mary Anning – the 19th century fossil finder who defied convention and gender roles to pursue her dreams and talents of becoming a pioneering palaeontologist.
Set against the backdrop of the iconic cliffs of the Jurassic Coast, Anthea Simmons skilfully unravels the childhood of one of history’s most fascinating figures.... Read Full Review
Mary anning is the fast talking, determined heroine that rises up and brings out a wonderful story that teaches you something at the same time, morals and dinosaur bones!
I really enjoyed lightning mary, and I'm sure so many others will too!
It's a fabulous mix of real and made up, with the general gist being entirely true: A young girl from a background of poverty and prejudice finds something, that, little does she know, will change the world!... Read Full Review
Written in 1st narrative, it is great to finally hear the voice of Mary Anning, who wasn't recognised in her lifetime, for the inspirational scientist she was.
I have always had an interest in fossils and Mary Anning, so when the children received this book, I thought I would read it first for a change! Written in 1st narrative, it is great to finally hear the voice of Mary Anning, who wasn't recognised in her lifetime, for the inspirational scientist she was.
From the very start of the book, Mary is fiery, interesting and bold. Born into a poor family, it is clear how her determination made her succeed. Based loosely on facts, the book is easy to read and Mary Anning proves to be an inspirational character.... Read Full Review
An irresistible narrative from a unique historical character who broke the mould. This is the tale of Mary Anning, the 19th century fossil finder and scientist who defied convention to seek out incredible treasures on Dorset’s Jurassic coast.
The LoveReading4Kids Editorial Team have read and reviewed Lightning Mary and determined it is suitable for children aged 9-12 years old
Lightning Mary features in the following genres: Books of the Month, Recommendations, Featured Books for 11+ readers, Historical Fiction, Children's and Young Adult Fiction, Children’s, Teenage and Educational, Julia Eccleshare's Picks of the Month, Books Reviewed by our Reader Review Panels, Featured Books for 9+ readers
Paperback. £7.19, down from the £7.99 cover price. In Stock.
Lightning Mary was written by Anthea Simmons and published by Andersen Press Ltd
Lightning Mary has 259 pages
£7.19, reduced from £7.99. In Stock.