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Title: Of Numbers and Stars - The Story of Hypatia
Author: Anne Love
Illustrator: Pam Paparone
Publisher: Holiday House, published in 2006
Where to Find It:
Buy Here: Of Numbers and Stars on Amazon.com
Read Online: Of Numbers and Stars on Archive.org
Best For:
6 - 9 years
The Tale in a Nutshell
This is a biography of Hypatia - and her amazing mind
Why This Book Shines
There is not much literature out there about women who have made a mark in the world of Mathematics or science. So, shining a light on Hypatia who was from Alexandria is notable. She paved a path by being curious, and encouraged by her father Theon a mathematican.
As I look at books for children in 2025 about women who made a mark in the world of mathematics, not a lot is found. Two things celebrated her, how her father opened out the world for her, and how her curiosity paved the path, even when the world was patriarchal and cruel.
The text is rich, and descriptive - and depicts an ancient time that was flourishing in science, curiosity and trade. It tells the choice made by Theon about educating his daughter, even though it is suggested the mother had more traditional choices for the daughter. Hypatia becames an ace at horse riding, fishing, learns about nature, philosophy, astronomy and mathematics. She becomes a debater.
The author's note suggests that Hypatia, despite her intelligence and wisdom was viewed by a very patriatrchal leader and fanatics he raised with fear. They attacked and dragged her to her death. Her friends called for justice after her death, and did not get any where. Her work and contributions were wiped off or ignored but modern world is striving to pay due homage to her.
Artful Notes
The illustration is culturally resonant. It is transporting to the time and place, and depects both the simple life and a patriarchal society. The judemental eyes of the community as she rode a horse or was in the debate courtyard, is telling of how the society viewed her.
Lines from the book
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