Nonfiction

Hansen,Amy S. Wanda oye las estrellas: Una astrónoma ciega escucha al universo. ISBN 9781623544881. 
––––. Wanda Hears the Stars: A Blind Astronomer Listens to the Universe. ISBN 9781623544874.
ea vol: illus. by Rocío Arreola Mendoza. 40p. Charlesbridge. Aug. 2025. Tr. $18.99.
GR 2-5 This picture book biography with STEM connections and disability representation shares the fascinating story of astronomer Wanda Díaz Merced. Growing up in Puerto Rico, Díaz Merced was fascinated by the stars and chased her dream to study them all the way to college. But when she began losing her eyesight due to diabetes, she had to find a new way to see what she had dedicated her whole life to. Not one to give up when faced with a challenge, Díaz Merced threw herself into the field of sonification, where numerical astronomic datasets are turned into sound, revealing new insights into celestial activity. Mendoza’s whimsical illustrations amplify the themes of magic and discovery surrounding Díaz Merced’s work. Thorough back matter is available in both the English and Spanish versions, including notes from both authors, information about the scientific concepts discussed, a time line of Díaz Merced’s career, and sources for further reading. VERDICT Readers will walk away inspired by the world around them and Díaz Merced’s creativity and determination. Recommended for all libraries.