Unsung Hero: The Julius Youngner Story
VIP Series
What’s inside...
Discover the life of Dr. Julius Youngner, the scientist who helped create the polio vaccine, in this middle grade nonfiction biography from the VIP series. This book is perfect for fans of the Who Was and Little Leaders series, featuring engaging text, two-color illustrations, fun facts, and special lists designed to captivate young readers. Learn about Julius's role as a researcher, doctor, and teacher, and explore a timeline, bibliography, and a hall of fame of other successful scientists from marginalized backgrounds. The VIP series highlights some of history's greatest trailblazers, focusing on leaders in science and technology to inspire today's kids.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
8-12
Length
112 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What qualities do you think made Julius Youngner a hero? Can you think of someone you know who has similar qualities?
Why is teamwork important in science and other parts of life? How did teamwork help Julius achieve his goals?
How did Julius feel when faced with challenges? What can we learn from his perseverance?
What impact did Julius Youngner’s work have on the world? How do you think the world would be different without his contributions?
Tip: Role play these questions
Use prompts to help your child relate personally to Julius Youngner’s story. Ask them about times they have had to work with others to achieve a goal.
Encourage your child to express their thoughts on the obstacles Julius faced and how he overcame them. Discuss similar challenges they might have faced in their own lives.
Highlight the importance of persistence and hard work by discussing Julius' dedication to his research and its global impact, tying it back to everyday tasks and goals.
After reading, help your child draw parallels between the scientific achievements discussed and current events or recent scientific advancements.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Perseverance through challenges
Explanation: Julius Youngner's story highlights his persistence in overcoming numerous obstacles while contributing to the development of the polio vaccine.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to continue striving towards their goals despite difficulties, understanding that perseverance can lead to significant achievements.
Example Lesson: Importance of teamwork
Explanation: The book illustrates how Julius collaborated effectively with other scientists, emphasizing that teamwork was crucial to their success.
Real-World Application: This can teach children the value of working cooperatively in group settings such as school projects or sports, enhancing their ability to achieve common goals together.
Example Lesson: Value of curiosity and learning
Explanation: Julius’s incessant quest for knowledge and his scientific inquiries are core to his achievements, as depicted in the book.
Real-World Application: Children are encouraged to explore their interests deeply and ask questions, fostering a lifelong love for learning and discovery.
Example Lesson: Contributing to society
Explanation: Through his work on the polio vaccine, Julius played a pivotal role in addressing a major public health crisis, highlighted by the narrative.
Real-World Application: This can inspire children to think about how they can use their own skills and passions to make a positive impact in their community.
Example Lesson: Handling failure constructively
Explanation: The story covers instances where Youngner faced setbacks and failures, but used them as learning opportunities.
Real-World Application: It teaches children that setbacks are natural and can be stepping stones to greater success if approached with the right mindset.