Dr. Mary-Louise Engels' engaging book discusses Dr. Bertell from a feminist, environmental activist perspective. It is a lovely portrait of one woman's commitment to sustaining a healthy world environment. A dual American-Canadian citizen, Bertell entered the religious order of the Grey Nuns, completed a doctorate in biometrics, and became an impassioned peace activist. This remarkable woman has been a lifelong fighter for environmental and human health, and an advocate for women's participation in decision-making about war, peace, and the environment.
In the 1970s, Dr. Bertell played a major role in opposing the construction of nuclear reactors, and in drawing attention to the health damages suffered by uranium miners and the "atomic veterans" of US nuclear bombing and testing. In Canada, her research furnished data on children's health hazards, contamination in the Great Lakes, and the investigations of environmental disasters—in Chernobyl, the Marshall Islands, India—consolidated an international reputation.
This is a compelling account of an extraordinary woman who has still not relinquished her mission "to make the victims visible." Dr. Engels captures the struggles and achievements, the scientific and political infighting, and the personal qualities that sustained Rosalie Bertell throughout a controversial career.

Dr. Mary-Louise Engels is a Clinical Psychologist. She was formerly Assistant Professor and Clinical Instructor at McGill University in the areas of Clinical Psychology and Psychiatry.

Mary-Louise Engels' profile page

"This is a remarkable and very timely book. Sharply focussed and readily accessible, it chronicles the extraordinary public contributions of my friend, Sister Rosalie Bertell, as well as the spirit, conviction and knowledge in which her work is grounded. Both the author and the Press deserve our thanks and high praise for undertaking this important but daunting task." - Ursula M. Franklin, C.C. FRSC University Professor Emerita, University of Toronto

"Using Dr. Bertell's testimony and reports, the Veterans Rights Coalition pursued legislation on behalf of Veterans exposed to ionizing radiation during the United State's nuclear testing period. Without her support, our successes would not be worth mentioning. Dr. Bertell's testimony before the US Congress on behalf of those of us who wore the uniform of the United States tested her resolve and her faith more than most people can comprehend. I, and many other Navy airmen and military personnel are alive today because of that resolve. I don't know what a saint is, but I'll accept her, at least, as our guardian Angel." - Michael Thomas, Director, Veterans Rights Coalition U.S.A.