26 Old Collections, New Tricks

This session highlights how re-examination and contemporary analysis of geoscience collections (i.e., rock, fossil, and archival collections, or geologic maps) can advance science, rewrite historical narratives, and contribute to discussions on social justice.

Monday, 23 March 2026
1:30 PM - 5:30 PM
CCC, Room 25

My Friend Manny: How Scientific and Historic Research Makes Literary Fun

Paper number: 26-11
Program: Technical Sessions
Time: 4:50 PM – 5:10 PM

Authors

Abstract

As an institution of education and research, the Rutgers University Geology Museum (RUGM) aims to inform, inspire, and promote an awareness of the natural history of our world. Working together as an interdisciplinary team of students and faculty through the RUGM,  a children’s book titled“My Friend Manny” was developed.  Throughout the project, the team researched the history of Manny, a Mastodon fossil housed at the RUGM, as well as the general history of the Mastodon species, the Ice Age, and the museum's history as a whole. Additionally, team members conducted extensive research on educational curricula in New Jersey, the development of narratives and children’s literature, and the process of publishing and printing a book for the general public. These research elements were combined to tell a story that appeals to all ages, but written to target elementary school children in grades 2 to 5.  The book tells Manny’s story by exploring Ice Age environments and ecosystems, geologic processes, and the events and figures that created and maintained the RUGM. The characters and accompanying artwork were carefully designed to help promote diversity and advance the narrative of the story. Overall, the work centered on a unified passion for education, advocacy, and interdisciplinary connections to develop, draft, write, edit, and publish a book meant to influence the community and education of children in a meaningful way. Simultaneously, “My Friend Manny” also helps create a public awareness of the RUGM and its impressive collections, history, and educational mission. 

Geological Society of America Abstracts with Programs. Vol. 58, No. 2

doi: 10.1130/abs/2026NE-411446

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