Marine scientist and author, Dr. Ellen Prager, inspires students
Carlos Jr. with Dr. Prager
On Friday, December 9, Mrs. Deitche’s Upper School science classes and 2nd-7th grade Lower School students had a very special visit from marine scientist and author, Dr. Ellen Prager.
Dr. Prager is widely recognized for her expertise and ability to make science entertaining and understandable for people of all ages. Carlos Bonilla Jr., a 3rd grader, was the one who initially contacted Dr. Prager and was the reason she visited Admiral Farragut Academy.
“About a year ago we chose Dr. Prager’s books to help Carlos Jr. with his speech. From there, he fell in love with her book series and asked if we could email her, and we did,” said July Bonilla, Carlos’s mom. “We couldn’t believe she actually wrote back. Since, they have been communicating back and forth and Carlos Jr. is even a test reader for her next book based in the Galapagos Islands.”
“I wanted her to come to the school because this is a very important time in my life,” said Carlos Jr. who says maybe he will write books on the ocean some day. “Her books have helped me become a better reader and I hope all my friends will read her books too.”
During Dr. Prager’s visit she discussed the different marine animals that inspired the characters in her books, which range from elementary to high school age readers. She talked about the many experiences she has had as a scientist and as an author and how she ended up where she is today. “I want science to be fun and enjoyable. It’s important to understand your strengths and weaknesses in your career, becoming an author was the best way for me to use my strengths,” she explained to the Upper School.
Dr. Prager’s books are inspired by Percy Jackson’s book series. She combines adventure, sarcastic humor, and real life issues that resonate with various age groups. “I like to think of my books as an underwater Harry Potter version.”
