Mario and the Hole in the Sky: How a Chemist Saved Our Planet by Elizabeth Rusch Illustrated by Teresa Martínez


Elizabeth Rusch’s Mario and the Hole in the Sky: How a Chemist Saved Our Planet, beautifully illustrated by Teresa Martínez, tells the true story of Mexican-American scientist Mario Molina, who helped uncover the dangers of CFCs (chlorofluorocarbons) and contributed to saving the ozone layer. This powerful biography highlights not only a major scientific discovery but also the perseverance, collaboration, and global citizenship it takes to protect the planet.



Curriculum Connections

Science & Chemistry 

Mario’s story is a stellar fit for middle and high school classrooms focusing on:

  • Atmospheric science and environmental chemistry

  • The ozone layer and UV radiation

  • CFCs and global environmental policy

  • Scientific inquiry and ethics in research

Pair the book with lessons on:

  • The Montreal Protocol

  • Current environmental challenges (e.g., climate change, plastic pollution)

  • Lab simulations that model how CFCs affect ozone molecules

  • Chemistry units on compounds and molecular interactions

Diversity in STEM

Mario Molina’s journey as a Mexican-born scientist making major breakthroughs in the U.S. is a critical reminder of the importance of diversity in science.

  • What challenges might Mario have faced as an immigrant and scientist of color?

  • How can students from underrepresented backgrounds see themselves in STEM fields?

  • Why is representation important in science—and in books?

This book also opens conversations about global collaboration, as nations worked together to address an urgent environmental issue.

Social Emotional Learning (SEL)

  • Persistence and purpose: Mario didn’t give up when people doubted his findings.

  • Ethical decision-making: He acted out of a deep sense of responsibility to the planet and humanity.

  • Global empathy: The book encourages students to see their role as stewards of the earth.

Discussion Questions

Science Focus

  1. What are CFCs and why were they so widely used before Mario’s discovery?

  2. How did Mario Molina and Sherwood Rowland prove that CFCs harmed the ozone layer?

  3. What makes the ozone layer important for life on Earth?

  4. What can we learn from the way governments responded to this environmental crisis?

Diversity & SEL Focus

  1. How did Mario’s identity and background influence his work?

  2. Why is representation important in scientific research and discovery?

  3. What personal traits helped Mario succeed in convincing the world of his findings?

  4. How can students use science to make their voices heard?

Mario and the Hole in the Sky is more than just a story about chemistry. It is a call to action, a celebration of scientific discovery, and a reminder that one person can spark global change. Whether you're teaching environmental science, exploring identity in STEM, or encouraging students to think critically about their impact on the world, this book offers a powerful, accessible entry point. Bring it into your classroom or library and watch students connect science to real-world change.

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