Why this book?
We live in a biodiversity crisis. A million plant and animal species are threatened with extinction. This is the result of human greed and, often, corruption, as represented by Meloncio, the major of Villagorrinas, who would do anything to turn the Magic Forest into timber and money. A glimmer of hope is offered by those individuals who work tirelessly to protect the biodiversity of the world like Marie, who was named after Marie Curie by her late father. This book is in homage to those environmental defenders.
One of the main sources of hope to make this a world where humans and all the other species can co-exist in peace is science. Science allows us
to make better decisions and solve problems that appear insurmountable. Unfortunately, very few girls and women make it to leadership positions
in STEM (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics). This is a great loss because the world is missing out on the next Marie, those who
will help solve the biggest problems we have. The book is an allegory to this problem. Marie, a little girl using science, will outwit four evil and cunning men.
Book excerpts
"All the living creatures in the forest form a web of life. These creatures deserve to live as they were meant to. From small bacteria in the soil to plants and insects . . ., to wolves and bears. The community is so incredible that it is magical."
Antonio, Marie's father.
"The most important thing in life is . . . money. Piles and piles and piles of it. Store it, treasure it, hoard it. Is that clear?"
Meloncio, Villagorrina's mayor.
