Selsam, Millicent Ellis (1912-1996), was an American author of introductory science books for children. She wrote about scientific subjects in a clear, interesting manner that children can understand easily. Selsam challenged her readers by asking them questions meant to arouse their curiosity and interest in a subject. Her books won praise for their ability to increase a child’s desire to learn more about a topic.
Selsam wrote about 130 books for children, beginning with Egg to Chick (1946). Her other works include Hidden Animals (1947), All Kinds of Babies and How They Grow (1953), Birth of an Island (1959), Questions and Answers About Ants (1967), How Puppies Grow (1971), Popcorn (1976), and Don’t Throw It, Grow It (1977). She was born on May 30, 1912, in New York City. She died on Oct. 12, 1996.
