author
Isabel Martin Lewis
1881–1966
A pioneering American astronomer, she helped bring the night sky to general readers through clear, approachable writing. Her books and newspaper work made eclipses, planets, and constellations feel exciting and understandable.
1 Audiobook
Astronomy for Young Folks
by Isabel Martin Lewis
About the author
Born in Old Orchard Beach, Maine, in 1881, Isabel Martin Lewis built a career in astronomy at a time when few women were given that chance. She became the first woman hired by the United States Naval Observatory as an assistant astronomer, and she was later recognized by major scientific societies including the American Astronomical Society.
Alongside her research work, she became known for explaining astronomy to everyday readers. She wrote newspaper pieces for the New York Evening Sun and published books such as Splendors of the Sky, helping people follow eclipses, planets, and other celestial events without needing specialist training.
She died in 1966, but her work still stands out as a blend of scientific skill and public communication. For audiobook listeners, she offers a window into an era when astronomy was being opened up to a much wider audience.