MARY MORLAND IN THE TIME OF DINOSAUR DISCOVERY, by Jane Kurtz and Giselle Potter, Beach Lane Books, Feb. 24, 2026, Hardcover, $19.99 (ages 4-8)
Learn about a major contributor to 19th-century paleontology in Mary Morland in the Time of Dinosaur Discovery, by Jane Kurtz and Giselle Potter.
While other little girls were sipping tea perched on their chairs, Mary Morland was given the freedom to spend her time outside exploring. After her mother died, her father sent her to live with a professor who taught Mary how to examine plants, animals, rocks, and fossils. She soaked up all the knowledge she could and captured her discoveries in her journals. Mary continued studying and drawing fossils into adulthood, becoming a prominent fossil hunter whose finds impressed leading scientists of the day.
Eventually, Mary bonded with William Buckland, England’s best fossilist, over their love of paleontology, and the two got married. Together, they introduced the world to Megalosaurus, the first dinosaur that lived on land. At the time, William received credit for their accomplishments while Mary worked from the shadows. —Synopsis provided by Beach Lane Books
Mary Morland in the Time of Dinosaur Discovery is a lovely biography that highlights Mary’s passion for learning and growth even in a time when it went against societal norms.
Author Jane Kurtz’s conversational writing is bright and energetic. She doesn’t mince words and readers will appreciate it.
Giselle Potter folk-style illustrations are charming and are perfectly suited to the setting.
Mary Morland in the Time of Dinosaur Discovery is an informative and engaging nonfiction read for young readers.
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