Award-winning nonfiction author of books for young readers



Get Real!

That's what I love to do most - write about real people, places, and things. As a nonfiction writer, I've met some fascinating people - from bug scientists to dream experts. Join in the fun as we explore exciting new worlds together!

Learn more about my books.


New Books

Extreme Scientists

Extreme Scientists

Exploring Nature's Mysteries from Perilous Places
(Houghton Mifflin Harcourt)
- A Junior Library Guild Selection
- Smithsonian Notable Books for Children 2009
- Chicago Public Library Best of the Best kids books 2009




Scaling giant redwoods.
Diving deep into underwater caves.
Flying through the eye of a hurricane.

Some modern-day explorers risk life and limb to pursue scientific discoveries. They're pioneers who collect data in laboratories few dare to enter. Learn why ecologist Steve Sillett suspends himself high in the canopies of the world's largest trees. Travel with microbiologist Hazel Barton and probe the belly of earth's hidden caves. Follow the flight of meteorologist Paul Flaherty as he and other hurricane hunters carve through the winds of deadly storms.

Science is an adventure -- in more ways than one. Join the fun!

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Reviews

Real Adventures
InfoDad.com

"One of the coolest books I've seen out this season . . ."
- Amanda Snow, A Patchwork of Books

Extreme Science: The self-sacrifice of some scientists will inspire awe, admiration, and chills
- Kathleen Baxter, School Library Journal

“Jackson hits just the right balance between informative descriptions of the science and excitement surrounding the risks involved in the activities of the scientists.”
- The Horn Book Magazine

“This exemplary title is just the thing for those who think that all scientists are sedentary.”
- School Library Journal

The Name Game

The Name Game

A Look Behind the Labels
Illustrated by Ted Stearn
(Viking - Penguin Young Readers Group)
A Junior Library Guild Selection

    ". . . those interested in what we name things and why will be pleased to encounter this well-researched and engagingly presented book."
    - Kirkus Reviews


What's in a name? Much more -- and much less -- than you might imagine. Our given names, for example, are often chosen with great care. Yet they generally say little about us. For that we have nicknames.

Among the more fascinating exceptions to the rule are aptronyms -- names aptly suited to a person's occupation or interests. In that case, you've got to wonder if it's purely coincidence that Alan Bloom is a renowned English gardener. Some think not.

Names introduce people, places, and things to the world -- and we all want to make a good first impression. Yet as with most labels in life, names only hint at part of the equation. Learn why what lies behind the name -- and how we interpret it -- are truly what matters. More...

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Reviews

“All kinds of entertaining and random facts are found in this quirky book. . . . Sports, people, and geographic locations all have different sections. Black-and-white cartoons add a bit of humor. Students will navigate this book with ease."
– School Library Journal

Phenomena: Secrets of the Senses

Phenomena: Secrets of the Senses

(Little, Brown and Company, Fall 2008)
Watch the Book Trailer






Sacramento Bee review, Feb. 24, 2009

The Well-Read Child blog review, Jan. 12, 2009

'Fascinating Look at the World of Science,' Charleston.net, 2009

Washington Post Book World review, Nov. 2, 2008

A Junior Library Guild Selection, November 2008

Notes from the Horn Book recommendation - October 2008

'Definitely a winner. . . ' Jan Fields, MyShelf.com review

Why do we dream? Are coincidences meaningful? What do first impressions tell us?
Our senses help us see, hear, feel, smell and taste the world around us. Yet each of our experiences is different. Why is that? What influences our perceptions and, ultimately, the way we interact with the world? If one of our senses is damaged, will our brains compensate in some way? How can scientists tap into technology and extend our sensory capabilities? What about animal "super" senses? Can dogs sniff out diseases in people, and do elephants really know when an earthquake's about to occur?

PHENOMENA: SECRETS OF THE SENSES explores these fascinating mysteries and more -- surveying sensory worlds from a perspective sure to make your mind tingle!

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A Chinese Name


Donna M. Jackson was named after a popular song called "Donna," and grew up in a state that takes its name from the Massachusett tribe of Native Americans.


Donna M JacksonWhile researching The Name Game, she received the Chinese pen name of "tang jie" (above) from a California naming company called Good Characters, Inc.

Tang (pronounced tahng) brings to mind the Tang Dynasty that reigned during China's golden age of science, poetry, and art. Jie (pronounced jee-eh) means one's older sister. This suits her perfectly, because she's the oldest of four children. Overall, the name is said to give a kind and welcoming impression.


Hear Donna pronounce her new name at TeachingBooks.net

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