Step into the lush, green Pacific Northwest and discover the amazing world of a trailblazing scientist. Meet Charles S. Parker, an unsung Black botanist and mycologist whose passion for plants changed the scientific world. Born in 1882, Charles loved nothing more than trudging through dense forests, climbing steep mountains, and wading into lakes to find new and fascinating plant life. When World War I broke out, Charles was drafted to fight. He experienced harsh prejudice and witnessed massive ecological devastation. But instead of giving up, those difficult experiences only made him more determined to follow his dreams. He wanted to build a career making things grow, rather than destroying them. After the war, he traveled across the United States, discovering new species of plants and fungi, and even solving the mystery of a disease that was killing fruit trees. This inspiring true story follows Charles as he becomes a celebrated teacher at Howard University. It will encourage you to follow your curiosity, overcome obstacles, and share your love of science with the world.