From the acclaimed author of Finding Wonders and Grasping Mysteries comes a gorgeously written biography in verse about the pioneering Jewish woman physicist whose scientific prowess changed the course of World War II.
At the turn of the 20th century, Lise Meitner dreamed of becoming a scientist. In her time, girls were not supposed to want careers, much less ones in science. But Lise was smart—and determined. She earned a PhD in physics, then became the first woman physics professor at the University of Berlin. The work was thrilling, but Nazi Germany was a dangerous place for a Jewish woman. When the risks grew too great, Lise escaped to Sweden, where she continued the experiments that she and her laboratory partner had worked on for years. Her efforts led to the discovery of nuclear fission and altered the course of history.
Only Lise’s partner, a man, received the Nobel Prize for their findings, but this moving and accessible biography shows how Lise’s legacy endures.
Author’s note. Time line. “Lise Meitner’s Friends and Colleagues.” Selected bibliography.
Title alpha Hidden Powers : Lise Meitner's Call to Science
Category Biography Middle Plus
Pages Count 288
Genre Nonfiction
Topics Lise Meitner (1878–1968). Novels in verse. Physicists. Women scientists. Jewish women. Twentieth-century Europe. World War II (1939–1945). Friendship. Scientific discovery. Nuclear fission.
Lexile 860L
Trim Size 8 3/10" x 5 1/2"
JLG Span Spring
Language English
Rights type Print
Publication date 2022-01-17
JLG Release Date May 2022
Minimum grade 5
Maximum grade 8
Reading level Middle
Format Print
Biography Middle Plus (Grades 5-8)
Biography Middle Plus
Biography Middle Plus (Grades 5-8)
For Grades 5-8
This collection features biography and memoir titles that introduce middle school readers to a wide range of real people and personal stories—from familiar historical figures and individuals shaping the world today to lesser-known people with compelling lives and contributions. Selections emphasize narrative-driven approaches, including visual and illustrated storytelling, that help readers connect personal experiences to history, culture, science, and innovation.