Book of the Month: Charles and Emma: The Darwins' Leap of Faith

I wanted to review a book for older kids for this month's book review and came across this gem by Deborah Heiligman. 

Summary: Charles Darwin published The Origin of Species, his revolutionary tract on evolution and the fundamental ideas involved, in 1859. Nearly 150 years later, the theory of evolution continues to create tension between the scientific and religious communities. This same debate raged with Darwin himself, and played an important part in his marriage: his wife, Emma, was quite religious, and her faith gave Charles a lot to think about as he worked on a theory that continues to spark intense debates.

Age Range: 13 and up

 "It is feeling and not reasoning that drives one to prayer." ~Emma to Charles

 This is an excellent, award-winning nonfiction book about Charles Darwin's life and a unique focus on his personal life. The mere idea of wondering what became of Darwin's relationship with his religious wife pulled me into this book. His ideas, mixed with his wife's religious views help teach Darwinism and shows how his work was affected by his wife Emma.

This is an interesting way to learn about science, history, and religion all at the same time with the element of curiosity that is needed to keep readers intrigued. Young readers will want to know how Darwin faired with his religious wife. I enjoyed the attention that was paid towards Emma.

This is a perfect book for older kids to read who want to debate the idea of evolution and religion. 

It was a National Book Award Finalist and won the Michael L. Printz Award for Excellence in Young Adult Literature by the American Library Association.