Gregor Mendel

Gregor Mendel: The Friar Who Grew Peas tells the true and inspiring story of the scientist whose curiosity changed the way we understand inheritance. Long before anyone knew about genes, Gregor Mendel asked a simple question: how do plants, animals, and people pass traits from one generation to the next?

Living a quiet, contemplative life as a friar, Mendel found the time and space to carry out a remarkable experiment—growing and observing generations of pea plants. By carefully tracking traits such as color and shape, he discovered the basic rules of heredity that would later form the foundation of modern genetics.

Written in clear, accessible language, this picture‑book biography introduces young readers to scientific thinking, patience, and perseverance. Jos. A. Smith’s detailed illustrations and diagrams make Mendel’s experiments easy to follow, while the narrative shows how careful observation and curiosity can lead to world‑changing discoveries.

An Orbis Pictus Honor Book, ALA‑ALSC Notable Book, IRA Notable Book, and AAAS/Subaru SB&F Prize for Excellence in Science Books finalist, Gregor Mendel: The Friar Who Grew Peas includes an author’s note and bibliography, making it a valuable resource for classrooms and curious readers alike.

Young scientists will be inspired by Gregor’s never-ending search for knowledge, and his famous experiments are easy to understand as an introduction to genetics.