Centre Associate Investigator wins prize for physics picture book

Associate Investigator Laura Manenti of The University of Sydney has been awarded the Italian Physics Society's education award for creating and internationally promoting an illustrated book on particle physics for children titled The Littlest Girl Goes Inside an Atom.

The book has been translated into several languages and is available on Amazon.

Dr Manenti talks about the her inspiration for the book and what its publication and the award mean to her.

Author and physics lecturer Laura Manenti

How does it feel to win this award?

I'm really proud and happy. When I got the news, it felt great to see all the hard work pay off with this recognition.

How did the book come about?

The idea for the book started in 2021. I noticed there weren't many books about physics for children, and the ones that did exist often lacked engaging illustrations and clear explanations. I wanted to create something different—something imaginative rather than just factual because I believe that's how children learn best. I also think science books shouldn’t target "smart" or "genius" kids. Curiosity is what matters most in science.

What do you aim to achieve with the book?

I feel like I’ve already achieved a lot. Knowing that thousands of children are reading my book before bed is amazing. Some have even dressed up as the littlest girl from the book for school events. My next goal is to finish the Persian translation to reach girls in Afghanistan who are being denied education.

What inspired you to pursue a career in science?

The pursuit of truth and beauty, along with the challenge it brings. I find value in doing difficult things, and physics is challenging and rewarding