All in a Drop: How Antony van Leeuwenhoek Discovered an Invisible World

For fans of the “Who Was” series, this lively, accessible, and full-color chapter book biography shows how a self-taught scientist was the first to observe the microbial life in and around us. By building his own microscope, Antony van Leeuwenhoek advanced humanity’s understanding of our oft-invisible world around us. 

Proving that remarkable discoveries can come from the most unexpected people and places, this eye-opening chapter book, illustrated with lively full-color art, celebrates the power of curiosity, ingenuity, and persistence.

Microbes are everywhere: in the soil and oceans, in snow, and inside our bodies. But in Antony van Leeuwenhoek’s time, people believed that what they saw with their own eyes was all that existed in the world. How did a simple tradesman—who didn’t go to college or speak English or Latin like all the other scientists—change everyone’s minds? |

"Well researched....highly engaging." - Publishers Weekly

"Alexander’s text is smooth and engaging, packaged into short chapters perfect for reading aloud, and enhanced with brief inserts of technical and scientific background and Mildenberger’s lively yet soft-textured scenes and vignettes." - Bulletin of the Center for Children’s Books

"Alexander’s excellent, accessible overview of Leeuwenhoek’s life gives readers a feel for both the person and the historical context." - Horn Book Magazine

"Engaging illustrations....An attractive, very readable book on an important figure in the history of science." - Booklist (starred review)

"Readable, informative, and a celebration of dedicated curiosity." - School Library Journal

"[This book] makes Antony's life's work accessible to a young audience that is sure to be intrigued and inspired....Methodical young scientists will see themselves in the 'Father of Microbiology.'" - Kirkus Reviews