Sisters in Science: Marie Curie, Bronia Dłuska, and the Atomic Power of Sisterhood by Linda Elovitz Marshall

Abstract

Reviewed by: Sisters in Science: Marie Curie, Bronia Dłuska, and the Atomic Power of Sisterhood by Linda Elovitz Marshall April Spisak Marshall, Linda Elovitz Sisters in Science: Marie Curie, Bronia Dłuska, and the Atomic Power of Sisterhood; illus. by Anna and Elena Balbusso. Knopf, 2023 [40p] Trade ed. ISBN 9780593377581 $18.99 E-book ed. ISBN 9780593377604 $11.99 Reviewed from digital galleys R Gr. 1-3 Marie Curie is certainly a well-known historical figure, but her sister is likely less so, though her creativity, intelligence, and role as a pioneer for women in science matches Marie. Bronia and Marie both secretly attended classes in Warsaw along with thousands of other young women who were not welcome in universities. Bronia moved out first, arriving in Paris in 1886 to study and become a doctor, and she was the encouraging force that Marie needed to leave home for her own education five years later. That sisterly nudge, a quiet but important moment within a family, impacted history completely, and that is the heart of this dual picture book biography—however cliche, there is undeniable proof in the concept that small acts can shape the world. The story is well-organized and elegantly told, but the resplendent illustrations are true works of art. Jewel tones, scientific markings, and narrative elements powerfully reinforced within the pictures (the sisters are always in close physical proximity when together, for example, emphasizing their unbreakable bond well before the text describes it) all add to the visual remarkability. Inspired by a 2017 biography of the two sisters, Marshall carefully trims this down to the essentials, stopping well before Marie learns the deadly nature of her discoveries and ending on a positive note about the power of sisterhood. While this may be a bit [End Page 159] disconcerting for adult readers, the target audience can begin with this exploration of the historical obstacles to the education of women, and the inspiring examples of Marie and Bronia. A timeline and partial list of works consulted can be used to give older readers a more complete picture. Copyright © 2022 The Board of Trustees of the University of Illinois