You Made Bubbles!

For the past few years, I’ve been wanting to find a way to make science books that are even more interactive for the reader. Of course, I’m a big fan (along with so many others) of Hervé Tullet’s books. And in schools, I can see the energy when students are engaged in hands-on science experiments. I wondered, Is there a way to bring those two together? Maybe. With the editorial guidance of Alyssa Pusey at Charlesbridge, it is now a reality. The first three books will be debuting soon. Hands-on-Science Matter is the first and comes out in July. Thankfully, it is already garnering strong reviews and comments in the literary world.

In these books, children, ages 4-8, enter a lab – Chemistry, Geology, or Physics – where they engage with text and illustrations to run experiments that show basic scientific principles. With tilting, blowing, jiggling, and more, the reader becomes an active part of the experiment. That’s what I wanted. High engagement! And even better it’s fun. Everyone connected with these books has tested the “fun” factor several times. We’re delighted.

So, who did the art for these? Druscilla Santiago. When you see her clear and distinct illustrations, I think you’ll be surprised to learn that Matter is her debut book. As with all my books, I’m over-the-moon happy with her interpretation of what I wanted students to enjoy.

As an author, it’s a blast to watch one of your dreams come to life. Fingers crossed that kids enjoy reading these as much as I did writing them.