Marie Curie's Radiant Quest

Book 2 - Dr. K's Portal Through Time

Children - Grade 4th-6th
116 Pages
Reviewed on 07/23/2025
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Author Biography

My name is Dr. Katherine E.A. Korkidis, though most know me as Dr. K. I began my career in research after completing graduate studies in physics and chemistry, conducting original work in industry while also teaching at several universities. My professional journey took me across the United States, Canada, Europe, Russia, and the Far East, where I developed new technologies and gained experiences that shaped my worldview and deepened my love for both science and storytelling.

Eventually, I embraced writing full-time, debuting with my novel Josette, which launched an exciting new chapter. Since then, I have authored nine award-winning books across multiple genres. Among these is The KEAK Anthology, a collection of short stories that received 14 Gold Book Awards between late 2023 and the end of 2024.

In 2024, I turned my focus to children’s literature with the launch of Dr. K’s Portal Through Time, a chapter book series for readers aged 8–12. Blending science, history, and adventure, the series encourages young minds to explore the past through the lens of discovery. The debut title, Galileo’s Points of Light in the Night Sky, invites readers on a journey to 1631 to meet Galileo and learn about his astronomical breakthroughs.

I am honored to share my stories with readers of all ages and hope they inspire imagination, curiosity, and a lifelong love of learning.

    Book Review

Reviewed by Pikasho Deka for 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.

Carol Thompson

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.

David Jaggart

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.