Kati's Tiny Messengers: Dr. Katalin Karikó and the Battle Against Covid-19

From the author of the National Jewish Book Award Finalist Bartali's Bicycle comes the story of unsung hero Katalin Karikó, the scientist whose research of mRNA led to the world-altering development of the Covid-19 vaccine. Perfect for readers who love science, STEM, and books like Dr. Fauci: How a Boy from Brooklyn Became America's Doctor or Hidden Figures: The True Story of Four Black Women and the Space Race.

When she was young, Katalin Karikó decided she would study science--even though she had never even met a scientist! But she was determined to learn as much as she could about the human body, and once she made a decision, she stuck with it. Katalin had to learn English while attending university, but she worked hard until she became a doctor.

After facing many challenges, including lack of research funding and harsh immigration policies, Kati and her family uprooted from Hungary and moved to America, where she became a top researcher. She knew that, with work, she could teach one of the building blocks of life, messenger RNA, to fight off harmful viruses. There was just one problem--no one else believed her.

Then, the COVID-19 pandemic hit, and Kati and her work were thrust into the spotlight. But with her unshakable will, she was ready to face the challenge.

Includes a note from Dr. Karikó, a time line, and more information about mRNA.

Publisher: Quill Tree Books
Published: 10/03/2023
Pages: 40
Weight: 0.6lbs
Size: 8.00h x 5.20w x 0.90d
ISBN: 9780063216624
Age: Ages 4-8


Review Citation(s):
Kirkus Reviews 08/01/2023