Kati's Tiny Messengers
What’s inside...
From the author of the National Jewish Book Award Finalist Bartali’s Bicycle comes the story of Katalin Karikó, a Nobel Prize-winning scientist whose research on mRNA led to the development of the Covid-19 vaccine. This book chronicles her journey from a young girl in Hungary, who decided to pursue science despite having never met a scientist, to becoming a top researcher in America. Facing challenges such as lack of funding and harsh immigration policies, Katalin's unshakeable determination and her groundbreaking work on mRNA eventually gained recognition during the COVID-19 pandemic. The book includes a note from Dr. Karikó, a timeline, and additional information about mRNA, making it perfect for readers interested in science, STEM, and inspirational stories of perseverance.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
4-8
Length
40 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What do you think the tiny messengers taught Kati about nature?
How do you feel when you help someone or something in need?
Can you think of a time you discovered something new, just like Kati did?
Why is it important to take care of our environment, according to the story?
How would you help the tiny messengers if you met them?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to express their thoughts by asking them how they felt about Kati’s adventures and decisions.
Relate the themes to your child's own experiences by discussing times they have helped animals or taken care of the environment.
Highlight the importance of curiosity and learning by discussing Kati's discoveries and what they teach us about our world.
After reading, spend some time outdoors with your child, exploring nature and discussing how they can be tiny messengers too.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Empathy and Understanding
Explanation: Kati learns to understand and feel the emotions of the tiny creatures in the garden, fostering a deep sense of empathy.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson by learning to recognize and respect the feelings and perspectives of others, whether it’s with friends, family, or pets.
Example Lesson: Responsibility and Care
Explanation: Throughout the book, Kati takes on the responsibility of caring for the garden and its inhabitants, illustrating the importance of responsibility.
Real-World Application: Kids can embrace this lesson by taking care of their own belongings, pets, or even assisting in taking care of a family garden.
Example Lesson: Courage in Facing the Unknown
Explanation: Kati confronts mysterious challenges as she communicates with the garden's tiny creatures, showing bravery and growth.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to face new experiences and challenges at school or in social settings with courage and openness.
Example Lesson: The Power of Curiosity
Explanation: Kati's adventure begins with her innate curiosity about the tiny voices she hears, which leads her to a deeper understanding of her environment.
Real-World Application: Curiosity can drive children to learn more about the world around them, enhancing their educational development and personal growth.
Example Lesson: Importance of Nature Conservation
Explanation: By interacting with nature's small creatures, Kati learns the importance of taking care of the environment.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to appreciate and engage in activities that promote ecological preservation, like recycling and conserving water.