2023 Finalist: Middle Grades Science Book

How to Build a Human: In Seven Evolutionary Steps, by Pamela S. Turner. (Illustrated by John Gurche.) Charlesbridge Publishing, 2021.

The epic story of our evolution in seven big steps!

How did we become who we are? With trademark wit, acclaimed science writer Pamela S. Turner breaks down human evolution into the seven most important steps leading to Homo sapiens. How, when, and why did we:

1. stand up,

2. smash rocks,

3. get swelled heads,

4. take a hike,

5. invent barbecue,

6. start talking (and never shut up), and

7. become storytellers?

This fascinating, wickedly funny account of our evolutionary journey turns science into an irresistible story. Vetted by experts at the Smithsonian's Human Origins Program, the book also features incredibly detailed portraits by celebrated paleo-artist John Gurche that bring our early ancestors to life.