A lesson in the value of devotion. Marie Curie grew up in Poland, then ruled by Russia, and was a brilliant but humble student. When the universities close to women, she risks her life by sneaking to the local museum to attend the Secret University. At the age of 15 Marie Curie works as a governess to pay for her older sister to attend the Sorbonne. When Marie finally arrives at the university, she lives in absolute poverty...eventually earning Masters’ degrees in physics and mathematics. She marries Pierre and at his urging stays at the university to continue her research. She becomes the first woman to receive a doctorate degree. Studying the origin of X-rays, she discovers that they come from the Uranium atom and presents her theory of “radioactivity.” Her research leads to the discovery of a new element, Radium, which is believed to kill cancer cells. Marie Curie’s dedication to science is proven when she is given the opportunity to sell her secrets or give them away. She says, “The dream of a true scientist is to serve mankind.” Marie Curie receives the Nobel Prize for Physics, joins the faculty at the Sorbonne and later earns a second Nobel Prize in Chemistry. Her work with X-ray technology saves thousands of lives. Includes 48-page activity book.