Throughout the novel, Kelly examines the ways in which science and education have empowered women throughout history. Set in the final year of the 19th century, the narrative follows a young woman named Calpurnia Tate, who has a passion for science and learning. Calpurnia finds herself constantly at odds with what her family and society have decided is acceptable for a young woman to know and do. While this is a major source of conflict and anxiety for Calpurnia, she refuses to give up on her dream of becoming a “girl scientist.”

From the beginning of the novel, Calpurnia’s intelligence and curiosity separate her from other young women in the small town of Fentress, Texas. Calpurnia’s family supports the traditional gender roles that limit a woman’s activities to the household. However, Calpurnia’s interest in science and the natural world compel her to seek out new knowledge and opportunities to learn. Her passion for natural science empowers her to act upon her curiosity, leading her to seek information from her elusive grandfather. Calpurnia’s grandfather is a naturalist, and because he sees the potential within Calpurnia, he takes her under his wing and teaches her many things that are deemed unbecoming for a woman to know within this traditional society.