BOOK 2
Reviews for Marie Curie’s Radiant Quest
Marie Curie's Radiant Quest by Dr. Katherine E.A. Korkidis is an enjoyable time travel children's tale that sweeps readers into the incredible life of the French physicist herself. This tale is guided by sibling Jennifer and Daniel, and their intelligent mentor, Dr. K. As such, readers are taken across continents, and different timelines, to experience pivotal moments in Curie’s life. These remarkable events include her time in Poland and her revolutionary contributions in Paris. Along the way, the siblings honor her scientific discoveries in radioactivity and the challenges she endured to win two Nobel Prizes. This book is much more than a historical treasure trove. It passionately explores Curie’s tenacious spirit and personal obstacles in a male-centered field. This informative book celebrates scientific curiosity while paying tribute to an iconic woman who transformed the field of science.
What makes Dr. Katherine E.A. Korkidis' Marie Curie's Radiant Quest stand out as a time travel story is how effortlessly the author combines sci-fi and historical details. Korkidis does a great job of bringing Marie Curie’s world to life with her imagination. She is a master of blending factual information into an adventurous book crafted to intrigue young readers. Intricate ideas are made entertaining and straightforward, while Curie's character is depicted as much more than a scientist. Curie is an emblem of empathy and strength. Themes of inquisitiveness and determination are embedded throughout the book, encouraging readers to think out of the box and challenge the status quo. The time travel element adds a pleasant twist, bringing history to life in a way that feels authentic. This book isn’t just a story! It is literary fuel that will help young minds discover, explore, and dream. It certainly is a memorable read. Highly recommended.- Reviewed by David Jaggart, Readers’ Favorite
Dr. K’s Portal Through Time: Marie Curie’s Radiant Quest by Dr. Katherine E.A. Korkidis is an engaging and educational journey that blends history, science, and adventure. Aimed at young readers aged eight to twelve, this second installment in the series takes Jennifer and Daniel on a time-traveling adventure to meet the legendary scientist Marie Curie. Through vivid storytelling and interactive dialogue, the book introduces readers to Curie’s groundbreaking discoveries, her resilience in the face of adversity, and her lasting impact on science and humanity. Marie Curie’s struggles as a woman in a male-dominated field and her unwavering dedication to her work are portrayed with sensitivity and admiration. These themes will inspire young readers to pursue their passions and overcome challenges.
The narrative is entertaining and informative, making complex scientific concepts easy to understand for young minds. Dr. Katherine E.A.Korkidis skillfully explains radioactivity, the discovery of radium and polonium, and the practical applications of Curie’s work, such as her contributions to cancer treatment and battlefield medicine during World War I. The inclusion of hands-on demonstrations, like the use of a Geiger counter, adds an interactive element that sparks curiosity and encourages readers to explore science further. The book also excels in its immersive depictions of historical settings, from the bustling streets of Paris during the Belle Époque to the somber realities of wartime. The detailed illustrations and vivid descriptions bring these moments to life. The author’s dedication to fostering curiosity is evident in the supplementary materials provided, including a science primer and glossary, which enhance learning. Marie Curie’s Radiant Quest's interactive approach, combined with its historical and scientific content, makes it a valuable resource for parents and educators.- Reviewed by Carol Thompson, Readers’ Favorite
Marie Curie's Radiant Quest is the second book in Dr. K's Portal Through Time -- a middle-grade educational adventure book series by Dr. Katherine E.A. Korkidis. After Jennifer learns about the incredible French scientist Marie Curie in class, she has a conversation with her grandpa about it. Soon, Jennifer, her brother Daniel, and Dr. K are on their way through their time portal to Paris in 1911 to meet Marie Curie and learn her story. After winning the Nobel Prize in physics in 1903, Madame Curie studied radioactivity with passion, eventually winning a second Nobel Prize in 1911 for her discovery of radium. The siblings revisit Madame Curie once again in 1918, and she tells them of her experiences in the Great War, driving mobile X-ray units.
Marie Curie's Radiant Quest is not just an educational book about one of the most inspirational scientists of the 20th century, but also a fun-filled time-traveling adventure tale that will delight middle graders and preteens. Dr. Katherine E.A. Korkidis brings Marie Curie's remarkable story to life in this wholesome adventure book, showcasing her contributions to science through her work in radioactivity. The book focuses on her discoveries of radium and polonium and their profound impact on humanity's progress. The narrative is primarily dialogue-driven. The interactions between the kids, their guide, Dr. K, and Madame Curie were some of my favorite parts of the book. Marie Curie's story is that of passion, persistence, curiosity, and determination. She paved the way for a lot of women researchers in STEM fields. Young readers will find her to be an ideal role model to follow. Highly recommended.- Reviewed by Pikasho Deka, Readers’ Favorite
Marie Curie’s Radiant Quest is a creative blend of historical biography, time-travel adventure, and science primer for curious young readers. Through the eyes of siblings Jennifer and Daniel, who travel with Dr. K through her magical portal, we get to witness the life, struggles, and triumphs of Marie Curie. From her early days in Paris to the discovery of radium and polonium, her groundbreaking Nobel Prizes, and her wartime work with mobile X-ray units, the book manages to cover both the sweep of her achievements and the personal grit behind them.
What I enjoyed most was how the story balanced real history with an almost playful sense of wonder. Curie describes the grueling, years-long process of isolating radium from pitchblende. The children’s questions bring an immediacy to the narrative, transforming what might otherwise seem like abstract science into a vivid account of perseverance and conviction. When Curie explains that discovery is rarely linear but instead filled with challenges and unexpected turns, the insight resonates deeply. It is a lesson that holds equal weight for adults as it does for younger readers.
I also liked how the book made science approachable without dumbing it down. In Chapter One, when Dr. K explains radioactivity, she compares unstable atoms to restless kids who can’t sit still and then to bubbles that “pop” to release energy. I was struck by the moment when Daniel exclaimed, “Pop? Like popcorn?” The lighthearted exchange underscores how effectively the book employs humor to make complex scientific concepts more accessible. It’s clever, and it makes concepts that would usually be intimidating feel relatable. The writing is clear, warm, and often funny; it kept me turning the pages even in parts I already knew from history.
Another standout for me was the way the book handled Marie Curie’s resilience as a woman in science. The narrative doesn’t shy away from the difficulties she faced, whether it’s being shut out of higher education in Poland or the immense skepticism she encountered in France. The moment when she becomes the first female professor at the Sorbonne felt huge, and it was powerful to see Jennifer draw strength from that as a young girl dreaming of her own future in science.
Marie Curie’s Radiant Quest left me with a real sense of admiration, not just for Curie, but for how stories like this can inspire curiosity in kids. The mix of adventure, history, and hands-on science makes it a great pick for classrooms, families, or anyone who wants to introduce children to one of the most remarkable figures in science. If you’ve got a young reader who asks “why?” a lot or if you’re an adult who still remembers the magic of discovery, this book is for you.
- Reviewed by Literary Titan
I loved how the book emphasizes the importance of curiosity and perseverance. Marie Curie’s achievements are inspiring, and the time-travel aspect makes the story feel fresh and exciting. The blend of science, history, and adventure kept me engaged throughout. Dr. Korkidis created a story that motivates young readers to explore and dream big.
- Reviewed by William Reimers, Amazon
This book does a fantastic job bringing Marie Curie’s achievements to life. I loved how it highlighted her challenges as well as her triumphs. The time-travel adventure added excitement and made learning about history fun. My kids were inspired to ask questions and explore science further. Dr. Korkidis clearly knows how to balance education with storytelling.
- Reviewed by SB Borcy, Amazon
As someone who read the first book in Dr. K’s Portal Through Time series, I loved this sequel even more. The addition of Marie Curie as a historical figure added depth and inspiration. The story was easy to follow, educational, and fun at the same time. My kids were completely engaged from start to finish.
- Reviewed by Mt Michaels, Amazon
I thoroughly enjoyed this journey through time with Dr. K and the kids. Learning about Marie Curie’s discoveries while following an exciting adventure made the story very engaging. The characters are relatable and bring humor to the historical narrative. It’s inspiring and fun all at once.
- Reviewed by Andre Sainz, Amazon
Marie Curie’s Radiant Quest is both entertaining and informative. I enjoyed seeing the key moments in Curie’s life come to life through the characters’ journey. The time travel concept made history feel interactive and exciting. It’s a book I’d happily recommend to kids and teens who are curious about science.
- Reviewed by Loreen Mercer, Amazon
My daughter loved this book! She’s been asking questions about Marie Curie ever since we finished it. The mix of adventure and real science made it really engaging for her. I think it’s perfect for kids who like learning through stories.
- Reviewed by Oscar Miller, Amazon
I picked this up for my niece, but I ended up reading it too. The time travel parts made it really fun, and I actually learned a lot about Marie Curie along the way. It’s an easy read and kept me interested the whole time.
- Reviewed by Paul Ryan, Amazon
Marie Curie’s Radiant Quest is perfect for children curious about science and history. I appreciated how the book encourages resilience, courage, and curiosity. The story’s pacing is excellent, with just the right mix of action and education. This is the kind of book that sparks a love for learning in young minds.
- Reviewed by Owen Prescott, Amazon
This book really motivated me to explore more about science. Marie Curie’s perseverance and achievements are inspiring, and the time-travel element made it engaging. I appreciated the mix of adventure and educational content. The story encourages curiosity and courage, which is exactly what young readers need. I can see this being a favorite in classrooms.
- Reviewed by Laura Zeller, Amazon
Marie Curie’s Radiant Quest is perfect for children curious about science and history.
I appreciated how the book encourages resilience, courage, and curiosity.
The story’s pacing is excellent, with just the right mix of action and education.
This is the kind of book that sparks a love for learning in young minds.
- Reviewed by Maria Moscoso, Amazon