MARIE CURIE

Marie Curie’s scientific research revolutionized the world of science while she defied the societal limitations of her day. Primarily focused on Curie’s adulthood, this early biography depicts a brilliant and motivated visionary. Because women were not allowed to attend university in her native Poland, she was forced to study abroad. Some of Curie’s hardships, including the death of her husband and research partner Pierre, are duly noted. However, other significant milestones, including the childhood death of her sibling and mother, are never described. Curie’s study of radiation and its controversial implications provide a balanced account. Unfortunately, the brevity of the form cuts some basic historical details; World War I is never named, for instance. The art’s consistent placement on each page serves to separate the text neatly for beginning readers. Often depicted in dusky browns and blues, a somber Curie stares intently at her audience. The lack of any documentation and the vague description of specific events cut corners a little too sharply, even for this young audience. (Early reader/biography. 6-8)