The Miracle Seed
The Miracle Seed by Martin Lemelman is a graphic novel published by William B. Eerdmans Publishing Company in 2023, featuring 80 pages in English. This book presents the remarkable true story of the Judean date palm, which faced extinction after the Roman conquest of Judea. It chronicles the journey of two female scientists, Dr. Sarah Sallon and Dr. Elaine Solowey, who embark on a groundbreaking experiment to revive this ancient plant from seeds discovered at the fortress of Masada.
Readers will find an engaging blend of world history, scientific exploration, and vibrant illustrations that highlight themes of perseverance and survival. The narrative intertwines the historical significance of the Judean date palm with the modern scientific process, making it accessible and inspiring for young audiences. This edition is part of the Spectacular STEAM for Curious Readers series, appealing to those interested in history, science, and agriculture.
Official synopsis Publisher
“Restores hope in the idea that all things are possible; especially empowering for young women interested in STEM subjects.”
— Kirkus Reviews (STARRED REVIEW)
“Captivating…not only reads like an adventure but also exudes an optimism of the kind that children ages 8-14 deserve.”
— The Wall Street Journal
The thrilling true story of an ancient plant in Israel, wonderfully reborn in the modern era through the hard work of two female scientists.
Thousands of years ago, in a time of rebellion, the Jewish people fought against their Roman rulers. The brutal Emperor Titus ordered the destruction of everything precious to the Jews: towns, villages, even their beloved Judean date palm trees.
Centuries passed. The Jewish people were scattered, and the Judean date palm faded into extinction. Then, in 1963, a team of archaeologists uncovered two-thousand-year-old date palm seeds at the ruined fortress of Masada. For another forty years the seeds waited–until 2004, when Israeli scientist Dr. Sarah Sallon had a big, courageous idea. What if those ancient seeds could bring the Judean date palm back to life? Dr. Sallon recruited her friend Dr. Elaine Solowey, and their amazing experiment began.
Intertwining world history, the scientific process, and colorfully detailed artwork, The Miracle Seed follows the Judean date palm’s journey from tragic extinction to incredible rebirth. Captivating and hopeful, this graphic novel from Martin Lemelman is an unforgettable look at perseverance and survival in the face of impossible odds.
Part of Eerdmans’ Spectacular STEAM for Curious Readers series, The Miracle Seed earned Junior Library Guild and PJ Library selections.
Awards
The Council on Botanical and Horticultural Libraries, Inc. (CBHL) Award of Excellence in Literature for Young Adults (2025)
The Nature Generation Green Earth Book Award in Children’s Nonfiction Long List WORLD Children’s Books of Year – Nonfiction
Tablet Best Jewish Books List
Christianity Today Book Award in Young Adults
Foreword Reviews INDIES Book of the Year Award in Juvenile Nonfiction Gold Winner
Evanston Public Library 101 Great Books for Kids list
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