Loved it! š
Kids will go on an informative trip inside the human cell to explore DNA, genes, & epigenetic, all brought to life through engaging artwork.
Breaking from Dogma is a vibrant, science-inspired picture book that introduces young readers to the concepts of DNA, genes, and epigenetics in a way thatās playful, imaginative, and empowering.
Through cooking metaphors, colorful illustrations, and magical sticky notes, kids ages 4 to 8 discover how our environment and experiences shape who we become, not just our genetic code.
Blending real biology with a message of self-worth and possibility, this book encourages children to embrace curiosity, confidence, and the idea that they are more than just their genes.
Written by a biotech executive and parent, Breaking from Dogma is perfect for families, educators, and librarians seeking to introduce big science ideas alongside social-emotional learning.
A celebration of individuality and growth, this book shows that nature and nurture donāt compete, they work together to help us shine.
Breaking from Dogma takes readers on an enlightening journey inside the human cell to explore DNA, genes, and epigenetic, all brought to life through engaging and captivating illustrations.
Have you ever wondered how your body knows what to do or why you're different from everyone else? You can thank your cells for that! Breaking from Dogma informs readers that their body is comprised of trillions of cells, which make up everything, including your skin! Thanks to the artist, the audience will get a magnified look at muscle, fat, and skin cells. And, as the character looks through a microscope, we get an even closer look at a cell. In the enhanced photo, we learn what is and where you'll find a cell's nucleus and cytoplasm. Don't worry if kids can't recall their meaning; there is a glossary in the end credits for every scientific word in the story, plus several more that weren't.
Every child's capacity to learn, understand, and retain information varies. The book's suggested reading age is 4-8. It's evident the author put a lot of thought into explaining genes and the Central Dogma of Molecular Biology: DNA, RNA, and proteins for this age range. The inclusion of silly, fun, and age-appropriate artwork, such as three smiling organs reading recipe books, was a nice touch. It was just what was needed to keep readers engaged.
The term "epigenetic inheritance" might sound complex, but Breaking from Dogma simplifies it beautifully. "It's a kind of memory from our ancestors experiences. A whisper from the past, living in your cells." While the term might be challenging for young minds to retain, they should be able to remember its meaning. Especially if shown the lovely image of the little girl holding onto an illuminated DNA as she stares in awe at her three ancestors above her head. So sweet.
Breaking from Dogma is a beautifully designed book that does a good job of breaking down how DNA and life experiences work hand in hand to shape who we are. While the illustrations are catered to 4-8-year-olds, kids in this age bracket might struggle to recall or pronounce some science terms. Therefore, I recommend reading the book more than once!
Breaking from Dogma is a must-have for elementary school classrooms, homeschoolers, and families who love science. Add the book to your curriculum. Read it for fun. Increase your science knowledge or use it to refresh your brain. (Yeah, adults, I am talkin' to you!). Learn together that our genes do not just shape us, but so do our environment, experiences, and choices.
Reviewed by
I've been constructing reviews for over a decade and don't plan on stopping anytime soon. Most of the reviews will be featured on my blog (Kam's Place), Pinterest, Instagram, BlueSky, and Goodreads. Don't forget to tip your waitress! :D
Synopsis
Breaking from Dogma is a vibrant, science-inspired picture book that introduces young readers to the concepts of DNA, genes, and epigenetics in a way thatās playful, imaginative, and empowering.
Through cooking metaphors, colorful illustrations, and magical sticky notes, kids ages 4 to 8 discover how our environment and experiences shape who we become, not just our genetic code.
Blending real biology with a message of self-worth and possibility, this book encourages children to embrace curiosity, confidence, and the idea that they are more than just their genes.
Written by a biotech executive and parent, Breaking from Dogma is perfect for families, educators, and librarians seeking to introduce big science ideas alongside social-emotional learning.
A celebration of individuality and growth, this book shows that nature and nurture donāt compete, they work together to help us shine.
About the author
Alex Collin is a biotech executive and parent passionate about turning complex science into playful, empowering stories for children. Raised in France and based in the Bay Area, she brings science, creativity, and heart to spark curiosity and confidence in young readers. view profile
Published on May 20, 2025
0-1000 words
Genre: Children's
Reviewed by
Discover more books like Breaking from Dogma: A Stor...
Create your free account to help this book get discovered and decide on the bestselling stories of tomorrow.
or
Or sign up with an
Or sign up with your social account