Author Cheryl Bardoe and illustrator Jos. A. Smith’s picture book Gregor Mendel: The Friar Who Grew Peas tells the true story about the father of genetics and his pea plants!  An Orbis Pictus Honor BookAn ALA-ALSC Notable BookAn IRA Notable BookAAAS/Subaru SB&F Prize for Excellence in Science Books Finalist   How do mothers and fathers—whether they are apple trees, sheep, or humans—pass down traits to their children? This question fascinated Gregor Mendel throughout his life.