Ada Twist, Scientist, written by Andrea Beaty and illustrated by David Roberts, is an energetic and inspiring picture book that both entertains and educates. Set against the backdrop of youthful wonder, the story of Ada Twist is not just about a little girl with a big curiosity; it is also a clarion call for the empowerment of girls in the fields of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM).

From the first page, readers are introduced to Ada Twist, a young girl whose silence as a toddler gives way to a torrent of questions as she grows. Ada’s quests for answers are inspired by historical figures Ada Lovelace and Marie Curie, whose legacies in mathematics and physics, respectively, sparkle throughout the pages of this delightful narrative. Beaty skillfully weaves Ada’s endless inquiries about the world around her into a storyline that radiates with charm and vigor.

The text itself is buoyant and rhythmic, perfectly tailored to read aloud. The repetition of certain queries underscores the iterative process of scientific inquiry and reflects the real-world frustrations and fascinations of exploring the unknown. Roberts’ illustrations are equally appealing, filled with colorful, chaotic scenes that vividly depict Ada’s experiments and misadventures. The diversity of characters presented is not handled perfunctorily but rather adds depth to the story, enhancing its contemporary relevance.

Central to the book’s theme is the illustration of perseverance. Ada, through her experimental mishaps and tireless questioning, embodies the essence of scientific discovery. Here, Beaty excels in delivering a subtle yet powerful message: the path to knowledge comes through embracing both failure and curiosity.

The extended universe of Ada Twist, which includes friends Iggy and Rosie—protagonists of their own titular books—provides a sense of continuity and suggests a world where all children can find their passions and pursue them rigorously. It’s a world that Beaty makes both inclusive and equitable.

In conclusion, Ada Twist, Scientist is more than a simple picture book. It is an important tool for empowerment, showing young readers, particularly girls, that questions are a stepping stone to discoveries and that science is not just a field, but an adventure. Andrea Beaty and David Roberts have not only crafted a story about a girl who asks “Why?”—they invite their audience to do the same, fostering curiosity and determination along the way. Providing both literary charm and educational value, this book is a splendid addition to any young reader’s shelf, certain to be cherished and revisited many times.