Happy Women’s History Month! Read Dr. Toughlove’s March 2024 book review.
Dr. Toughlove has decided that in honor of Women’s History Month, she would review “I am Marie Curie” written by Brad Meltzer and illustrated by Christopher Eliopoulos. This book is part of the Ordinary People Change the World, children’s book series. Other books in this series feature Amelia Earhart, Rosa Parks, Helen Keller and many more.
This book tells the story of Marie Curie, who was born in Poland in 1867. Marie was an inquisitive child who learned to read at a young age and had a fascination with science. Her father, who was a science teacher, supported her passion and taught her scientific concepts on an ongoing basis. Times were very hard in Poland during Marie’s early life, but she busied herself reading, drawing, dancing, and learning about science.
At age sixteen, Marie decided she wanted to be a scientist, but her local university did not admit women. Undeterred, she found a way to enroll at a secret women’s university and ultimately went to the Sorbonne in France. To say that she was determined is an understatement.
Dr. Toughlove doesn’t want to give the entire story away, but Marie’s accomplishments included but were not limited to: conducting research about radioactivity, discovering polonium and radium, and winning not one but two Nobel Peace Prizes in physics and chemistry. Her research continues to impact our lives today.
The story of Marie Curie’s life exemplifies ingenuity, perseverance and intellectual curiosity, which fueled her dream to change the world by applying scientific concepts. Many famous students followed in her footsteps and built upon her knowledge and expertise.
The use of speech bubbles to enhance interest coupled with Christopher Eliopoulos’s colorful illustrations make “I am Marie Curie” an inspiring and engaging read. A book about Marie Curie is a great book selection any time of the year, but is particularly timely during Women’s History Month.
While this book is recommended for youngsters aged 5-9, Dr. Toughlove believes that children and adults alike will enjoy reading this book and learning about Marie Curie. In the back of the book there is a timeline of her accomplishments, photographs of Marie throughout her life, and further reading suggestions. “I am Marie Curie” is available at the Queen Anne’s County Library.