Fiona Wood: Inventor of spray-on skin

“Burne’s carefully researched biography of Fiona Wood is relayed to middle primary to lower secondary readers via an engaging text that celebrates the life and work of Fiona Wood…It is a story that transcends the factual in the ongoing history of plastic surgery. Burne never talks down to her readers whilst delivering a clear introduction to her subject, keeping in mind the complexities that need to be addressed. This book should be in every school and public library as Burne goes where few writers do as it celebrates the advances of science and medicine.” – Rayma Turton, Magpies magazine

“A fantastic series that ticks all the boxes for both classroom teachers and teacher librarians, the Aussie STEM Stars series reveal the true heroes of the Australian scientific community using narrative non-fiction to enthral and educate its readers. One of the first titles to be released, Fiona Wood: Inventor of Spray-on Skin written by Perth author and science communicator Christy Burne, tells the incredible story of a girl who dreamt of making a difference. Her childhood set amongst the coal dust of Yorkshire with parents who worked hard to instil in their children the importance of doing their very best – grasp the nettle with both hands and don’t let go – and then her struggle with being a woman and mother in a male ego driven career, is a story worth reading. There are times when significant events are glossed over, but I imagine that Fiona Wood’s life would be worthy of volumes. The events and aftermath of the Bali bombings are written in a compelling manner and young readers will be caught up in the action and despair of all those involved. Fiona Wood is shown to be a woman of compassion, intelligence and strength. Her childhood fighting school bullies and the small-mindedness of many in her community provided a perfect apprenticeship for what lay ahead for her. Fiona Wood: Inventor of Spray-on Skin will not only appeal to young girls dreaming of a life in science but also any reader who enjoys reading a story about a life filled with determination, adventure and compassion.” – Heather Zubek

“Fiona Wood: Inventor of Spray-On Skin is a fascinating read. It’s about the plastic surgeon, Fiona Wood, and how she invented spray-on skin. She was awarded Australian of the Year in 2005. This book gives you an insight into the life of a plastic surgeon, the work they do and how they do it. It’s incredible stuff! I learnt how some surgeries can take 10 hours to complete. That blew my mind! Also, did you know that when operating on a burns patient, the operating theatre needs to be 32 degrees Celsius, because a burnt body can’t regulate its own temperature? That would be really hot for the surgeons and nurses. From her childhood to her becoming a surgeon, this book takes you through each step of Fiona’s life. It will leave you amazed at how the daughter of a coal miner became a famous surgeon, which proves that anything is possible if you put your mind to it. I really enjoyed this book. However, some of it is a little bit heavy. So, I recommend this book for readers aged 12 and over. 5 stars.” – Lana Goodall, kid reviewer for Double Helix magazine

‘This very interesting and well-written story makes compelling reading either independently or as a class novel. There are detailed teacher notes. There are also another four books in the Aussie Stem Stars series with more to be published in the future. Perfect for a school or public library.’ – ReadPlus