Darwin and Hooker: A story of friendship, curiosity and discovery that changed the world

Author: Alexandra Stewart. Illustrator: Joe Todd-Stanton. 80 pp. Fully illustrated throughout. 305 x 238 mm. Hardback, ISBN 9781526613998. Bloomsbury in association with the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew 2022.

On 24th November 1859, Charles Darwin’s On the Origin of Species was first published, selling out almost immediately. Describing the now well known theory that humans evolved through a process called natural selection, it became an instant classic and cemented Darwin as one of the greatest biologists of all time.

However, he couldn’t have done it without the support, encouragement and advice from those who believed in him. None more so than Joseph Hooker, his friend, confidant and fellow collector, who supported and helped Darwin when he didn’t dare ask anyone else. Hooker, too, had his own adventures and made his own discoveries – many of which not only aided Darwin, but went on to change what the world knew about plants. Becoming head of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew, he came to be one the world’s most influential botanists.

Across many years, countless adventures and numerous letters, this captivating and wonderfully illustrated book tells the story of one of greatest friendships to happen to science. This book will show children how teamwork, curiosity, openness and trust can be the greatest tools a scientist will ever need. They might even help you change the world.

Alexandra Stewart read Modern History at Oxford University before training to be a journalist. After working as a reporter on a number of newspapers, she crossed the floor to become a press officer for the Metropolitan Police and, later, Central Government. She subsequently worked as a speechwriter. Alex lives in Hampshire, UK with her husband and two children. She is also author of Everest: The Story of Edmund Hillary and Tenzing Norgay, illustrated by award-winning artist Joe Todd-Stanton and Jumbo: The Most Famous Elephant Who Ever Lived illustrated by Emily Sutton.

Joe Todd-Stanton grew up in Brighton and received a first-class degree in Illustration from UWE Bristol. He is the author and illustrator of The Secret of Black Rock (Flying Eye Books), which won the Waterstones Children's Book Prize 2018 (illustrated category) and was longlisted for the 2018 CILIP Kate Greenaway Medal.