As the father of a four year-old girl, I'm repeatedly upset by the statistics I encounter regarding girls and science. Currently, of all the STEM (Science-Technology-Engineering-Math)-related jobs out there, less than a quarter are held by women. Research shows this is a direct result of gender stereotypes and biases. I find this unacceptable. Our daughters should be encouraged in equal measures as our sons to explore whatever interests they might have.
So I’ve decided to do something about it.
I’ve created an interactive app/e-Book series for kids. It's called JOSIE ROBIN, SCIENCE FIEND and it's about a little girl who uses science to solve the everyday mysteries of life.
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The goal of the series (besides to entertain) is to inspire kids to see the wonders of science in new ways and empower girls to defy the stereotypes and biases holding them back from pursuing their latent interests in STEM subjects.
The first installment of the series is an enhanced e-Book called "A Fungus Among Us," in which the series' heroine, Josie Robin, must conquer a rapidly-expanding organism taking over her world. It’s a funny little story that examines taxonomy, and a sweet introduction to a smart and determined role model who will hopefully help shift some trends.
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Working with Electric Yarn, a New York-based transmedia company, I recently launched a Kickstarter campaign to raise the funds necessary to push the e-Book across the finish line. We're almost there but we still need a little help.
Please check out the Kickstarter page here to see a video about the project and get more information about all the great people involved.
And, if you believe in this cause, please help us reach our goal. Thanks!
