From the Kids Can Read Alone series, this biography introduces Marie Curie's life and work. It begins with her early years in Poland, where women could not attend university (she worked to earn enough to study science in Paris). The book also touches upon her marriage to Pierre Curie; her discovery of polonium and radium, which led to two Nobel Prizes; and ends with her fatal illness and her stature as "the most famous woman scientist." MacLeod, who earlier wrote a biography of the scientist for middle-grade students, does a good job presenting Marie Curie to even younger readers. The book clearly communicates the importance of this scientist's achievements as well as her willingness to sacrifice personal comfort in pursuit of her goals; for instance, she drove X-ray machines to battlefields during World War I. A full-color illustration appears on each page. Though the figure drawing is a little awkward at times, the pictures add to the book's appeal and help to define the people, the places, and the period in Curie's life.

Materials; directions for drawing people, animals, and objects; the difference between gag cartoons, comic strips, and comic books, plus a section on writing humor are all covered in this clear introduction to the art of cartooning. Though it may not answer all questions, the upbeat tone, creative exercises, and lots of example illustrations will inspire budding artists. Ind.

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)