Moss, Marissa. Woman Who Split the Atom, The: The Life of Lise Meitner. Harry N. Abrams, 04/2022. 264pp. Biography. Grades 6-10. $19.99. 978-1-4197-5853-9. Outstanding.
Moss crafts an engrossing biography of Lise Meitner, a Jewish Austrian nuclear physicist, exploring the significance of her research, demonstrating her passion and commitment, and investigating the impact that sexism, antisemitism, and personal betrayal had on her work. As the Nazis gained control in Germany in the 1930s, Moss shows how “the scientific community as a whole said and did nothing as some of its most esteemed members were stripped of their positions and assets” simply because they were Jewish. Meitner finally escaped to Copenhagen to work with Neils Bohr, and then to Sweden where she made her most significant discovery, showing that atoms can be split and the resulting “nuclear fission” released incredible energy. When Hahn received the 1944 Nobel Prize, “he presented the discovery as his alone.” Moss describes the scientific, political, and personal developments clearly, basing much of her interpretations on letters Meitner wrote to other scientists throughout her career. Chapters begin with one-page comics that draw readers into the narrative and convey some of the emotional weight of the story. Short, clear chapters help move the story at a brisk pace. Extensive back matter helps frame and support the story. Throughout, Moss shows how deeply Meitner cared about physics, fighting constantly for her right to be recognized.
Mary Ann Scheuer—Independent