Kati's Tiny Messengers [Kariko, Katalin]

Ages 4 to 8, Grades P to 3

This amazing picture book biography shines a spotlight on unsung hero Dr. Katalin Karikó, the scientist whose research of mRNA led to the world-altering development of the COVID-19 vaccine. Includes a note from Dr. Karikó!

When she was young, Katalin Karikó decided she would study science—even though she had never met a scientist! But she was determined to take in as much information about science as she could, and once she made a decision, she stuck with it. And she eventually became a doctor.After facing many challenges, including having to learn English at university, lack of research funding and harsh immigration policies, Kati and her family left Hungary and moved to America. 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 research were thrust into the spotlight. But with her unshakable will, she was ready to face the challenge and knew that she would be able to fight this virus . . . and win.Written by critically acclaimed author Megan Hoyt and illustrated by Sibert Honor–winning artist Vivien Mildenberger, this picture book biography is a perfect companion to Dr. Fauci: How a Boy from Brooklyn Became America's Doctor.

About the Author

Megan Hoyt fell in love with reading on a cozy branch of the crab apple tree outside her Texas home. Marguerite Henry’s “horsey books” still remind her of the loud Texas cicadas at dusk. She is the author of Bartali’s Bicycle and The Greatest Song of All. When she is not writing, Megan tutors child actors on set for Disney, Warner Bros., and Showtime, among others. She lives in Charlotte, NC, where most days she is surrounded by piles upon piles of picture books. Visit Megan online at meganhoyt.net.Vivien Mildenberger is an award-winning illustrator of many books for children, including All in a Drop and The Voice that Won the Vote. She lives in a spooky old farmhouse just outside of Nashville, TN. There she works on her illustrations, pottery, and other general magic-making. Visit her online at vivien.mildenberger.com.