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When Science Stood Still
How S. Chandrasekhar Predicted the Existence of Black Holes
By Shruthi Rao
Illustrated by Srinidhi Srinivasan
Table of Contents
About The Book
Discover the remarkable true story about the man who discovered the science of black holes and persisted in his theories against the disbelief of the scientific community in this nonfiction picture book perfect for fans of Counting the Stars and What Miss Mitchell Saw.
When scientists get things right, science leaps forward. When they get things wrong, they learn from their mistakes, and science continues to advance. But sometimes, even when scientists get it right, nobody pays attention. Then, for a while, science stands still.
Subrahmanyan Chandrasekhar was a brilliant scientist with eyes fixed toward the stars. As a young man, he developed the theory that would eventually lead to the discovery of black holes. But when he presented his findings to the world’s leading Western scientists, they scoffed at his ideas. Chandra knew he was right. But would anyone listen?
Learn the true story of a relentless scientist and his cosmic discovery that had to wait for science to change its mind.
When scientists get things right, science leaps forward. When they get things wrong, they learn from their mistakes, and science continues to advance. But sometimes, even when scientists get it right, nobody pays attention. Then, for a while, science stands still.
Subrahmanyan Chandrasekhar was a brilliant scientist with eyes fixed toward the stars. As a young man, he developed the theory that would eventually lead to the discovery of black holes. But when he presented his findings to the world’s leading Western scientists, they scoffed at his ideas. Chandra knew he was right. But would anyone listen?
Learn the true story of a relentless scientist and his cosmic discovery that had to wait for science to change its mind.
About The Illustrator
Srinidhi Srinivasan is a children’s book illustrator based in South India. Though she graduated with a bachelor’s in computer science engineering, she realized that drawing and creating magical worlds were what tickled her heart. She loves telling diverse stories of characters who have their own say in the world. When she is not drawing, you can find her lost in a book or scribbling in her sketchbook as her tea gets cold. Visit her at SrinidhiDraws.com.
Why We Love It
“Black holes have always been endlessly fascinating to see and learn about, but and the story of their discovery—and how Chandra had to persist against his detractors—that makes this story as inspiring as it is informative. It’s a wonderful blend of science and humanity.”
—Nicole F., Editor, on When Science Stood Still
Product Details
- Publisher: Margaret K. McElderry Books (October 14, 2025)
- Length: 40 pages
- ISBN13: 9781665949972
- Ages: 4 - 8
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- Book Cover Image (jpg): When Science Stood Still Fixed Layout eBook 9781665949972
