Terra Tempo: The Academy of Planetary Evolution

Gr 3–6—Twins Jenna and Caleb, along with their friend Ari, begin their education at the Academy of Planetary Evolution at the Field Museum of Natural History in Chicago. There they meet fellow geology enthusiasts and brainiacs. With a special device known as a "toggler" the students are able to travel to the times and spaces they are learning about to witness science in real time. Several guest lecturers guide them through their units of study including Andrew Carnegie and Herman Melville. Trouble ensues when Seth, leader of the Treasure Hunters and chief villain of the series, tries to recruit a student for his newest endeavor, REDI (Resource and Energy Development, Inc.) He uses his usual tricks to attempt to achieve his goal, but a great symposium with the greatest minds in science is held to settle the ownership of the time travel maps once and for all. This series is getting stronger with each successive installment and is not only action-packed, but focuses on science in a way that is entertaining, informative, and inspires further research in middle grade readers. Back matter includes several maps showing the migration of the earth's tectonic plates, an equine evolution map, and short biographies for the famous faces that appear in the story. Highly recommended for purchase for school and public library collections.—Samantha Lumetta, Public Library of Cincinnati and Hamilton County, OH