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Blending Adventure With Science

Dr. Katherine E.A. Korkidis  Author Interview

Galileo’s Points of Light in the Night Sky follows a pair of curious siblings and Dr. K and her magical time portal, who travel back to Renaissance Italy to meet Galileo and experience firsthand the wonder of his telescope and discoveries. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?

The inspiration came from my desire to make science and history feel alive for children. Galileo’s discoveries changed how we understand the universe, yet for many young readers, history can feel distant or abstract. By introducing a magical time portal and pairing the story with two inquisitive siblings, I wanted to create a bridge between today’s readers and the past. The setup allows children to see history not as dusty facts in a textbook but as living experiences full of curiosity, wonder, and adventure.

I enjoyed your characters, especially Dr. K. What was your favorite character to write for and why?

Dr. K was certainly the most rewarding character to write. She is both a guide and a fellow traveler, modeling how to ask questions, nurture curiosity, and balance seriousness with a sense of wonder. 

Through her, I was able to weave together elements of science, history, and imagination. 

She is not only a mentor to the children in the story but also a representation of my own lifelong passion for encouraging young minds to explore the world around them.

What were some educational aspects that were important for you to include in this children’s book?

I wanted to emphasize both Galileo’s scientific process and the cultural context of his discoveries. 

Children learn not only that Galileo built a telescope and observed the moons of Jupiter, but also that these observations challenged established beliefs of the time. 

The book highlights critical thinking, perseverance, and the courage to question accepted truths. 

I also included a “Science Primer” at the back of the book to give readers and educators additional resources, ensuring that the story supports learning in both classrooms and homes. 

Can you tell us more about what’s in store for Dr. K and the direction of the second book?

The second book, Marie Curie’s Radiant Quest, transports readers to Paris at the turn of the 20th century. 

In this story, Dr. K and the siblings meet Marie Curie and learn about her groundbreaking work with radioactivity. 

The narrative continues to blend adventure with science, showing not only Curie’s discoveries but also her perseverance in the face of challenges as a woman in science. 

The series as a whole will continue to introduce children to great scientists across time, always with an emphasis on curiosity, resilience, and the wonder of discovery.  

Author Links: GoodReads | X | Facebook | Website Books | Website Authors

Join Jennifer and Daniel in a thrilling journey back to 1631, where they meet Galileo, witness his astronomical discoveries, test their problem-solving skills, and explore the cosmos.
In the awarding-winning Galileo’s Points of Light in the Night Sky, the first book of the captivating Dr. K’s Portal Through Time series, Jennifer, a vivacious 10-year-old, and her intellectually curious 8-year-old brother, Daniel, embark on an exceptional voyage through the annals of time. Guided by the enigmatic and brilliant scientist, Dr. K, they are transported to the heyday of Renaissance Italy, straight into the workshop of the iconic astronomer, Galileo Galilei.
As they traverse the time portal, Jennifer and Daniel experience firsthand Galileo’s groundbreaking observations of the celestial expanse through his innovative telescope. They are enlightened about the significance of questioning established norms and the audacity needed to defy the status quo. The siblings witness Galileo’s unveiling of the cosmos’s wonders and his revolutionary proposition that our Earth is not the center of the universe.
Throughout their journey, Jennifer and Daniel support Galileo in chronicling his pioneering discoveries. They confront challenges that enhance their problem-solving abilities and deepen their grasp of the scientific method. Their adventure cultivates an appreciation for the quest for knowledge and the potency of curiosity.
This enthralling tale seamlessly blends history, science, and adventure. It offers young readers a captivating, educational narrative, introducing them to the mesmerizing world of astronomy and the enduring contributions of one of history’s most illustrious scientists. The story of Jennifer and Daniel will inspire the readers to question, explore, and cherish the pursuit of knowledge, just like Galileo did. The book, while being a thrilling read, also helps foster a love for STEM disciplines in young, inquisitive minds, making it a perfect addition to any child’s reading list.
At the end of Book 1 is a QR code for the Science Primer, a comprehensive, free downloadable guide over 100 pages long, written specifically for parents and teachers. It also includes a complete Teacher’s Guide with detailed lesson plans, a glossary of terms, and an extensive list of resources such as books, videos, websites, and other online Resources for teaching about Galileo and his discoveries. The primer is designed to make science education engaging and accessible. Each of the books written for the series will feature its own tailored Science Primer. Book 1 itself also includes a glossary of terms and resources designed specifically for children ages 8-12, complementing the exciting adventures of Jennifer and Daniel.

Encouraging Young Minds

Dr. Katherine E.A. Korkidis Author Interview

Galileo’s Points of Light in the Night Sky follows a pair of curious siblings and Dr. K and her magical time portal, who travel back to Renaissance Italy to meet Galileo and experience firsthand the wonder of his telescope and discoveries. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?

The inspiration came from my desire to make science and history feel alive for children. Galileo’s discoveries changed how we understand the universe, yet for many young readers, history can feel distant or abstract.

By introducing a magical time portal and pairing the story with two inquisitive siblings, I wanted to create a bridge between today’s readers and the past.

The setup allows children to see history not as dusty facts in a textbook but as living experiences full of curiosity, wonder, and adventure.

I enjoyed your characters, especially Dr. K. What was your favorite character to write for and why?

Dr. K was certainly the most rewarding character to write. She is both a guide and a fellow traveler, modeling how to ask questions, nurture curiosity, and balance seriousness with a sense of wonder. Through her, I was able to weave together elements of science, history, and imagination.

She is not only a mentor to the children in the story but also a representation of my own lifelong passion for encouraging young minds to explore the world around them.

What were some educational aspects that were important for you to include in this children’s book?

I wanted to emphasize both Galileo’s scientific process and the cultural context of his discoveries. Children learn not only that Galileo built a telescope and observed the moons of Jupiter, but also that these observations challenged established beliefs of the time.

The book highlights critical thinking, perseverance, and the courage to question accepted truths.

I also included a “Science Primer” at the back of the book to give readers and educators additional resources, ensuring that the story supports learning in both classrooms and homes.

Can you tell us more about what’s in store for Dr. K and the direction of the second book?

The second book, Marie Curie’s Radiant Quest, transports readers to Paris at the turn of the 20th century.
In this story, Dr. K and the siblings meet Marie Curie and learn about her groundbreaking work with radioactivity.

The narrative continues to blend adventure with science, showing not only Curie’s discoveries but also her perseverance in the face of challenges as a woman in science.

The series as a whole will continue to introduce children to great scientists across time, always with an emphasis on curiosity, resilience, and the wonder of discovery.

Author Links: GoodReads | X (Twitter) | Facebook | Website | Katherine Korkidis | Amazon

Join Jennifer and Daniel in a thrilling journey back to 1631, where they meet Galileo, witness his astronomical discoveries, test their problem-solving skills, and explore the cosmos.
In the awarding-winning Galileo’s Points of Light in the Night Sky, the first book of the captivating Dr. K’s Portal Through Time series, Jennifer, a vivacious 10-year-old, and her intellectually curious 8-year-old brother, Daniel, embark on an exceptional voyage through the annals of time. Guided by the enigmatic and brilliant scientist, Dr. K, they are transported to the heyday of Renaissance Italy, straight into the workshop of the iconic astronomer, Galileo Galilei.

As they traverse the time portal, Jennifer and Daniel experience firsthand Galileo’s groundbreaking observations of the celestial expanse through his innovative telescope. They are enlightened about the significance of questioning established norms and the audacity needed to defy the status quo. The siblings witness Galileo’s unveiling of the cosmos’s wonders and his revolutionary proposition that our Earth is not the center of the universe.

Throughout their journey, Jennifer and Daniel support Galileo in chronicling his pioneering discoveries. They confront challenges that enhance their problem-solving abilities and deepen their grasp of the scientific method. Their adventure cultivates an appreciation for the quest for knowledge and the potency of curiosity.

This enthralling tale seamlessly blends history, science, and adventure. It offers young readers a captivating, educational narrative, introducing them to the mesmerizing world of astronomy and the enduring contributions of one of history’s most illustrious scientists. The story of Jennifer and Daniel will inspire the readers to question, explore, and cherish the pursuit of knowledge, just like Galileo did. The book, while being a thrilling read, also helps foster a love for STEM disciplines in young, inquisitive minds, making it a perfect addition to any child’s reading list.

At the end of Book 1 is a QR code for the Science Primer, a comprehensive, free downloadable guide over 100 pages long, written specifically for parents and teachers. It also includes a complete Teacher’s Guide with detailed lesson plans, a glossary of terms, and an extensive list of resources such as books, videos, websites, and other online Resources for teaching about Galileo and his discoveries. The primer is designed to make science education engaging and accessible. Each of the books written for the series will feature its own tailored Science Primer. Book 1 itself also includes a glossary of terms and resources designed specifically for children ages 8-12, complementing the exciting adventures of Jennifer and Daniel.


Marie Curie’s Radiant Quest: Dr. K’s Portal Through Time

Marie Curie’s Radiant Quest is a creative blend of historical biography, time-travel adventure, and science primer for curious young readers. Through the eyes of siblings Jennifer and Daniel, who travel with Dr. K through her magical portal, we get to witness the life, struggles, and triumphs of Marie Curie. From her early days in Paris to the discovery of radium and polonium, her groundbreaking Nobel Prizes, and her wartime work with mobile X-ray units, the book manages to cover both the sweep of her achievements and the personal grit behind them.

What I enjoyed most was how the story balanced real history with an almost playful sense of wonder. Curie describes the grueling, years-long process of isolating radium from pitchblende. The children’s questions bring an immediacy to the narrative, transforming what might otherwise seem like abstract science into a vivid account of perseverance and conviction. When Curie explains that discovery is rarely linear but instead filled with challenges and unexpected turns, the insight resonates deeply. It is a lesson that holds equal weight for adults as it does for younger readers.

I also liked how the book made science approachable without dumbing it down. In Chapter One, when Dr. K explains radioactivity, she compares unstable atoms to restless kids who can’t sit still and then to bubbles that “pop” to release energy. I was struck by the moment when Daniel exclaimed, “Pop? Like popcorn?” The lighthearted exchange underscores how effectively the book employs humor to make complex scientific concepts more accessible. It’s clever, and it makes concepts that would usually be intimidating feel relatable. The writing is clear, warm, and often funny; it kept me turning the pages even in parts I already knew from history.

Another standout for me was the way the book handled Marie Curie’s resilience as a woman in science. The narrative doesn’t shy away from the difficulties she faced, whether it’s being shut out of higher education in Poland or the immense skepticism she encountered in France. The moment when she becomes the first female professor at the Sorbonne felt huge, and it was powerful to see Jennifer draw strength from that as a young girl dreaming of her own future in science.

Marie Curie’s Radiant Quest left me with a real sense of admiration, not just for Curie, but for how stories like this can inspire curiosity in kids. The mix of adventure, history, and hands-on science makes it a great pick for classrooms, families, or anyone who wants to introduce children to one of the most remarkable figures in science. If you’ve got a young reader who asks “why?” a lot or if you’re an adult who still remembers the magic of discovery, this book is for you.

Pages: 116 | ASIN : B0F6M4MVX4

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The Story of Josette and Daniel: A Contemporary Sweet Romance Trilogy

Dr. Katherine E. A. Korkidis’ The Story of Josette and Daniel: A Contemporary Sweet Romance Trilogy offers a captivating contemporary romance journey through the stages of life and love. Josette beautifully captures a young girl’s resilience and discovery of her musical talents, leading her to New York and into a complicated but heartfelt romance with her instructor, Daniel. This story of love and overcoming adversity resonates deeply.

In Daniel, the focus shifts to the life of Daniel Ellington, whose early life of privilege contrasts with emotional complexities. His intricate relationship with Josette, set against his own personal struggles and a loveless marriage, paints a rich tapestry of human emotions and choices.

The trilogy culminates with Josette and Daniel, a story that beautifully ties together themes of love, redemption, and personal growth. Their married life, filled with both challenges and triumphs, is a moving portrayal of commitment and the power of love to heal and transform lives.

The trilogy’s vivid settings and engaging character arcs, along with a glimpse into high-society life, add a layer of elegance and fascination. The narrative style, with its straightforward exposition, offers a clear and accessible reading experience, while the inclusion of detailed cultural elements adds depth and authenticity to the story. The character development throughout the trilogy is thoughtful and nuanced, offering readers characters that, while near-perfect, embody aspirational qualities that inspire. This, combined with the potential for further narrative refinement, suggests that with minor adjustments, the trilogy could offer an even more immersive and emotionally rich experience. This trilogy is a delightful and sophisticated romance that skillfully intertwines emotional depth with the allure of luxury and intrigue. Its heartfelt storytelling and memorable characters make it a standout in contemporary romance literature.

Dr. Katherine E. A. Korkidis’ trilogy is a beautifully woven narrative of love, resilience, and transformation. It skillfully captures the essence of contemporary romance, blending rich settings with complex characters to create a deeply engaging and memorable reading experience.

Pages: 698 | ASIN ‏ : ‎ B0C7XRFCYF

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