A Dangerous Idea: The Scopes Trial, the Original Fight over Science in Schools

by Debbie Levy

One hundred years ago, a small-town science teacher ignited a nationwide debate over what students should learn in school--and who should decide.

* “Compelling.” -School Library Journal, starred review
* “Timely.” -Booklist, starred review
* “Insightful.” -Horn Book, starred review
* “Comprehensive and conversational.” -Shelf Awareness, starred review

A Junior Library Guild Gold Standard Selection

In 1925, when Tennessee lawmakers banned the teaching of evolution in public schools, teacher John Scopes challenged the law--and set off a gripping circus of a legal battle. Two masterminds faced off in a blistering courtroom debate over creationism and natural selection, each armed with the books they believed belonged in classrooms. Celebrity politician William Jennings Bryan relied on the Bible to make his case, while legal luminary Clarence Darrow defended Charles Darwin's groundbreaking books On the Origin of Species and The Descent of Man. Their clash would go down in history as the Scopes Monkey Trial.

A century later, here is the riveting truth of what happened and why it matters. For a nation still arguing about the books and ideas that young people should encounter, award-winning author Debbie Levy delivers an important, insightful and expertly-researched account of our history that illuminates the challenges we face today.

Genres: Nonfiction, History, Science, Middle Grade, Religion, School, Evolution

284 pages, Kindle Edition

Published January 14, 2025

About the author

Debbie Levy is the author of more than thirty books for young people, including the New York Times bestselling I Dissent: Ruth Bader Ginsburg Makes Her Mark; A Dangerous Idea: The Scopes Trial, the Original Fight Over Science in Schools; This Promise of Change (with Jo Ann Boyce); The Year of Goodbyes; and Becoming RBG. Debbie is the recipient of a Boston Globe-Horn Book Award, Robert F. Sibert Informational Book Honor, Sydney Taylor Award, and the National Jewish Book Award, among other honors. Before she started writing books for young people, she worked as a newspaper editor and a lawyer.

Reviews

[Blaine DeSantis · Rating 5 out of 5]

Superb book by Debbie Levy who brings so much of the Scopes/Monkey Trial to life with her writing. While this book may be geared for a Young Adult genre, it contains so much good information that even an old 71-year old such as me found out a whole lot more than what I had know about this trial. The book covers the evolution vs creationism trial in Dayton, TN, back in 1925, and gives a good overview on all the proceedings. The trial was given extensive media coverage, and was so well attended that the judge was afraid that the courtroom floor would collapse and then moved some of the most dramatic testimony outside of the courthouse onto the lawn. Growing up I loved watching the movie "Inherit the Wind" but this books tells us what really happened and how much of the testimony never was heard by the jury, but rather as part of court motions. Well written, and easy to follow, the book does a fine job with the subplot of Clarence Darrow vs. William Jennings Bryan. Just a darn fine book, to put it mildly!!

[Sarah Miller · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book demonstrated exactly what it was talking about: holes in student learning thanks to the interference of politics. I thought I knew about the Scopes trial but 95% of the information was new to me as I’d never encountered it in my own schooling or personal reading. The myths of the trial have endured much more than the substance.

The first half of the book set up the circumstances of the trial. The histories of those involved, especially Darrow, Bryan, and Scopes. The laws and political and religious landscape in Tennessee and the U.S. at the time. I felt this was the strongest part.

The second half is a lot of detail on the trial itself, with day by day breakdowns of the case and how it was received and perceived by the public. There were parts of this that were very strong but there was more editorializing, with the author giving opinions on the arguments and process. As a lawyer, she has good insight to do this. But while it could be funny or interesting, it also could be distracting and feel ahistorical in a way that wasn’t helpful.

It’s very clear that the circumstances of this trial are very similar to today and the debates about learning, science, religion, and public school have changed much less than we think. This book helped me to contextualize that in new ways.

[Donna · Rating 4 out of 5]

Apparently reality/history isn't that close to "Inherit the Wind". An enjoyable book

[Kristen · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is well written and interesting. It turns out I knew almost nothing about the Scopes Trial beyond its name and that it was about evolution. I thought this was the trial that went to the Supreme Court and made it illegal to ban teaching evolution in schools, but I was wrong. Honestly, there's so much that's weird and random about this case and I thought all of it was fascinating.

I do think this will take some hand selling to the intended audience. There is a lot in here that resonates and feels very familiar to today, but I'm not sure a court case from 100 years ago is going to call out to a lot of middle grade readers without some context from people encouraging them to read it.

[Ms. Yingling · Rating 4 out of 5]

Copy provided by the publisher

The more I read about the 1920s, the more it feels very modern. There are cars, planes, women playing sports (Macy's Breaking Through), and challenges to what schools were teaching. The Scopes Trial, while very different in some ways from events we are seeing today, also has some alarming similarities.

It was also the Age of Ballyhoo, so I was not overly surprised to learn that the trial came about due to local authorities wanting to bring more attention and tourism dollars to the small town of Dayton, Tennessee. Seeing the new Butler Act, which the governor signed thinking that it would have no effect on the citizenry, ban the teaching of evolution, and noticing that the state approved textbook, A Civic Biology, included a few pages of the topic gave Doc Robinson, the school board president and local drugstore owner an idea. The ACLU wanted a test subject to oppose the ban. Enter John Scopes, a young physics and math teacher who also coached, who was substituting for the biology teacher. Had he taught evolution? Well, probably. Would he be okay with being arrested and going to trial? Why not. And just like that, Dayton got lots of attention.

Levy does a great job of laying the groundwork and describing many different cultural facets that young readers won't know. Public schools were fairly new. There was a lot of religious fervor at the time. And William Jennings Bryant and Clarence Darrow were celebrity lawyers on opposite sides of the political spectrum with a long standing feud. There's also a discussion about Charles Darwin and his research, as well as an exploration of why some people believed in his work and others did not.

The most surprising part of this book is that while Scopes (who didn't speak in his own defense!) was found guilty and required to pay $100 fine, the case didn't get any further than the state supreme court, where the verdict was upheld, although the fine was eliminated. Evolution was kept out of many textbooks for years, and it wasn't until 1968 that Susan Epperson in Arkansas took her case to the supreme court, where it was declared that states couldn't ban teaching certain things because it was a violation of free speech. Even though Scopes had gone into geology, he and Epperson met up at one point to have lunch. This didn't surprise me. Teachers are particularly good at talking to each other, and that's one conversation I would have loved to have heard!

This is a well paced book, and quite an interesting read. There are several classes currently working on a nonfiction book project, and I have to admit that it took me a little bit of time to pick up this book, but once I did, I was hooked. My students with an interest in history, law, or science will find this to be an engaging narrative nonfiction choice. I just wish I still had a copy of Kidd's Monkey Town (2006) to go along with it.

[Anne Stevenson · Rating 4 out of 5]

Much to like about this book! Starts with a quick background on Darwin's origin of species, and some background on the two main lawyers in the case and how they rose to prominence, a detailed and vivid/exciting portrayal of the actual courtroom drama, and ends with some of the aftermath in the years after the trial, as well as an epilogue connecting it to current events. I learned a lot about the famous "Scopes Monkey Trial", and was intrigued about how some aspects of religion + politics have drastically changed in the past 100 years (for the worse, in many ways), and also the themes and patterns that haven't changed a bit. I felt this book was well-researched and a compelling-enough read for a student with any interest in political history, current events related to politics and religion, or famous legal battles and courtroom stories.

"Everyone has the right to think in accordance with the way he sees things and to act accordingly. Believing differently on some issues should not influence the degree of respect and friendship one has for another." - John Scopes to William Jennings Bryan leading up to the trial 1925

"Ignorance and fanaticism is ever busy and needs feeding. Always it is feeding and gloating for more. Today it is the public school teachers, tomorrow the private. The next day the preachers and the lecturers, the magazines, the books, the newspapers. After awhile, your honor, it is the setting of man against man and creed against creed until with flying banners and beating drums we are marching backward to the glorious ages of the sixteenth century when bigots... burn[ed] the men who dared to bring any intelligence and enlightenment and culture to the human mind." - Clarence Darrow in court, 1925

Recommended for students (and adults) ages 10+ (no "mature content", but higher level content for sure, so may appeal more to ages 13+)

[Barbara · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is the hundredth anniversary of the Scopes trial, making this the perfect year to revisit the events surrounding the trial. The author also is careful to share both sides of the arguments and the aftermath, which goes far in explaining why there continues to be controversy about the teaching of evolution in schools today. Not only that, but her Epilogue sheds light on why there continues to be "resistance to science" (p. 234-235) today regarding vaccines seen during the recent pandemic and "resistance to historical facts" (p. 235) regarding uncomfortable parts of history. Reading about how individuals with certain perspectives were ridiculed in the media will help teens question some of the stories they read and hear. There are thirteen pages of Source Notes, which goes far in assuring readers that the author did her research. I'm not entirely sure about teen appeal, but I am convinced that this is an important story, one that challenges the usual narrative around the Scopes trial. As is so often the case, there are so many myths and untruths around this story, that it's important to revisit it, consider the times in which the trial occurred and its effects. Parts are a bit dry, but that won't bother history fans.

[Andrea]

I can't in fairness rate this as I did not finish it. I read what I read for a book club. It was fine as far as I read. I have no issue with the writing or anything. I would probably give it four stars. But, I DNF'd because I hate American History, (I know, I know...terrible) This particular argument is one that just frosts my cookies. I sit firmly on the side of evolution and rehashing it all for me is just annoying...to ME! just me. This is my take. If that is your thing, you go for it.
Again, it was part of a book club. I probably would not have picked it up since it isn't my thing so much.

I do have a question about the age it is meant for. It is in the juvenile section of the library. Honestly, I don't see a kid reading this unless they are super keen on this subject. I don't see a teen reading it either. But it is written for a younger reading, so would an adult read it (if not for a Young Adult book club) ? I would imagine there are other books about the subject out there to read for adults.

Anyway. Sorry. I think it is probably a fine book, but it just didn't gel for me no matter how important the subject. And it IS an important subject.

[Rachel · Rating 4 out of 5]

*I received a free ARC from the publisher through NetGalley in exchange for my honest review*
My dad talks about/quotes the movie Inherit the Wind all the time so I grew up hearing about the Scopes Trial and knew a little about it going into reading this book. I loved that this book takes what could be considered some pretty heavy and (to some people) boring material and makes it accessible to a younger audience. It also makes the primary players in the trial come alive for readers by making them just seem like regular people. I also found it fascinating how Darrow and Bryan's paths had been crossing for years prior to them going up against one another in court. Given the state of politics and education in the US I think this is the perfect time to introduce this book to school-age students to help them understand how long these debates about curriculum have been going on and how we got to where we are today (and maybe understand why it is still so relevant). I highly recommend this book for middle and high school classroom and school libraries.

[Mary · Rating 5 out of 5]

It took a little while to get into this history of a major trial, but it was worth it. Ms. Levy's folksy style suits her subject matter, and her research is impeccable. It is extraordinary how relevant this tale is to the present day. Once again, we are facing book bans and a serious attempt to control public education and weaken it in the name of religion. Once again, religious voices who affirm science and the right to know are being silenced.

This book includes well-placed contemporary photos and a list of sources. It should be in every library serving high-school age students. Highly recommended. I read this book for the Bank Street Children's Book committee, and my colleague and I are nominating it for an award.

[Jessica Harrison · Rating 5 out of 5]

It’s funny how history repeats itself. In a time when calls for censorship are ramping up, books like A Dangerous Idea are more important than ever.

What could be a heavy or dry topic is brought to life through author Debbie Levy’s adept hands. Her writing is clear and inviting. And the added images increase interest. Readers will find the steps leading up to the case fascinating, especially learning how school curriculum is decided.

A Dangerous Idea is exactly the sort of nonfiction book that all middle-readers and young adults should be reading. It would make for excellent classroom or home discussion.

[Cynthia Marcus · Rating 3 out of 5]

I found this book to be very simplistic. The author is known as a young adult author, and this is very evident in this work. If you know nothing about the Scopes trial, this is a good entry into the subject. It also provides succinct biographies of both Darrow and Bryant.

I found the discussion of the relevance and importance of the trial both historically and as a current subject of interest to be brief and not particularly well developed.

The most interesting fact I learned is that the town of Dayton planned this challenge as a way to revitalize the town and bring business to the area.

[Jennifer Jones · Rating 5 out of 5]

It is uncanny, reading and reviewing this considering what we are in for in our current political climate. With there being such discourse about science, and just what is taught in schools in general, I think this is a timely novel for anyone that is interested in truly learning more about this particular trial and what it meant to our students/children. Well worth the read! Thank you to NetGalley for allowing me the chance to read the ARC of this.

[Amanda Shepard (Between-the-Shelves) · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is well-researched and written in a way that is accessible for teens (especially the shorter chapters). While it's a subject I don't see having wide appeal, I can see some teens being drawn to this particular story. It's also (unfortunately), particularly relevant to the current moment in time with book banning and censorship. If you're interested in learning more about the Scope Trial, I'd recommend checking it out!

[Megan · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really enjoyed how in depth this was while still remaining child friendly. I don't mind reading nonfiction made for a younger audience, especially when all I want is to learn about something in simple terms. This was very informative!

I also really liked that the author called out all these old white people as being racist and pointed back to the fact that the battle over evolution being taught in schools walked hand-in-hand with eugenics, etc.

[Alyson · Rating 3 out of 5]

I love learning about topics I know nothing about. I was not surprised to discover that there was a religious uproar when schools started teaching evolution, though I hadn't given it any thought before. I appreciate the authors research and the background information about the main characters. It is hard, however, reading a book with modern sensibilities because the trial seems so ridiculous to my modern thinking.

[Eva Kent · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was a crazy, yet fun rollercoaster ride even if I already knew the outcome. Debbie Levy explains the wild story of how and why evolution was--and still is--a highly debated topic. The story of the famous "monkey trial" reads like fiction, but is unbiased and rooted in thorough research. She gives the case an origin story, a beginning and ending. If you want to go on Levy's ride through history to today's science versus religion politics, read this book. 5/5

[Beth · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thank you to Netgalley for the free arc!

It was interesting reading about the beginning of the debate over whether or not it is okay to teach evolution in public schools. This book integrates history, science, religion, and journalism. I also had no idea that the Scopes Trial is what the movie Inherit the Wind is loosely based on!

[MKF]

DNF.

It starts with the planning of the trial then drifts to the history of things and people related to the trial. It seemed like it was never going to get back to the trial so I finally just gave up.

[Karla Karstens · Rating 5 out of 5]

I knew something about the Scopes trial, but this book gave me the necessary background information to better understand its significance. The author also connects the issues surrounding the trial to things happening today.

[J. Mann · Rating 5 out of 5]

There is nothing like reading raw history, and it’s what Levy does best. Ate this book up and then got to the epilogue. Amazing!

[Paige · Rating 5 out of 5]

Provides a concise history of an important court case and an understanding of how resistance to scientific facts can be hampered by belief systems.

[Hoover Public Library Kids and Teens · Rating 4 out of 5]

One hundred years ago, a small-town science teacher ignited a nationwide debate over what students should learn in school--and who should decide.

[Elizabeth Johnson]

No rating for this one because it really wasn't for me and I'm not sure how to rate it.

[Calu Howard · Rating 4 out of 5]

Very interesting and well researched. The author brings up great points about education and science in the US.

[Arazeli · Rating 5 out of 5]

Narrative style was entertaining

[Chris · Rating 3 out of 5]

An extensive and detailed account of the Scopes trial with more detail on the backgrounds of the major players than the trial itself. Includes timeline, bibliography, and index.

[Reba · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was so incredibly well done. Everyone should read this!

[Sarah Copeland · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a book I picked up because it was “available now” on the service I use to read ebooks.
I knew nothing about it and as I started reading I started googling, because I still knew nothing about what the book was mentioning.

What was the Scopes trial?
Who was John Scopes?
Who was Will Bryan?
Who was Clarence Darrow?
Why does this feel like a book about now and not a book about something that happened 100 years ago?
Why are we discussing much of the same 100 years later?

I learned a lot, this book was written very well, easy to follow, engaging, exciting, and laid out the facts supported by sources.

[Laura · Rating 4 out of 5]

Given the political climate and the questions of what (and how) things should be taught in schools, this is a very timely book. A little less on Bryan and Darrow and more on the law, and what was happening in other jurisdictions, would have made this a 5 star.