This book was a fantastic read. I had learned about the Radium Girls when I was in high school but haven’t read much about them since. My librarian gave me this book to read and I’m so glad she recommended it. The story shows how important these teenagers/early 20 year women were so vital to the WWI effort by painting the radium based paint onto watch dials. But what made me angry is that so many men knew this stuff was dangerous but never told the girls it was dangerous. These poor girls, being healthy women then becoming sicker and dying for no apparent reason. I was moved by their bravery as they stood up and demanded justice for them and their families. Highly recommend this story!! ( )

RGG: Very exciting, interesting, and terrible history. The gruesomeness of the effects on the women, the callousness and criminality of the business owners, and the fight for justice are really compelling. Reading Interest: 13-YA.

A fascinating piece of recent history ( )

Radium is a highly radioactive element discovered by Marie and Pierre Curie in 1898. Because of its luminous qualities, it was used in painting watch dials so they would glow in the dark. Unfortunately, many factory workers were harmed by this metal.

Read the recently published young reader's edition, then learn more at the websites:

THE RADIUM GIRLS by Kate Moore is a young reader's edition of the best-seller exploring the true stories of everyday young women who fought for labor regulations, advanced science, and saved lives in the early 20th century. Divided into three sections focusing on knowledge, power, and justice, the book weaves in less-known stories and primary sources. It concludes with a glossary, timeline, photos, and additional resources.

The book's website contains additional information about the individual women featured in the book along with other information.

To learn more, go to http://theradiumgirls.com/.

ARC courtesy of Sourcebooks Explore. ( )