George's Secret Key to the Universe

Middle schoolers may be surprised to learn that theoretical physics makes sense! This is the story of George, a boy who yearns for a computer of his own. But George's parents avoid technology (cars, electrical appliances, and bologna) because of their concern for the environment. When their new neighbors befriend George, he is thrilled that they have not only a computer but the world's most amazing computer--Cosmos, capable of transporting humans through the universe. Hugh Dancy's skilled narration contributes significantly to this story. He converts the pedantic lectures into interesting conversations. The last CD includes the computer-simulated voice of Stephen Hawking reading scientific notes--a wonderful bonus. Unfortunately, the audiobook lacks the useful illustrations found in the print version. N.M.C. (c) AudioFile 2008, Portland, Maine

Starred review from October 1, 2007
What better way to interest young readers in science—and specifically in its relevance to the long-term survival of humankind—than for one of the world's most renowned theoretical physicists to put his subject at the center of a children's book? Stephen Hawking, his novelist daughter, and French physicist Galfard create two inquisitive, middle-school heroes, then send them on wondrous adventures through time and space. The characters round out their experiences with information regarding everything from nuclear fusion reactions to neutron stars to the origin of black holes. In this first volume of a projected trilogy, George Greenby—whose technophobic parents have done their best to shelter him from the dangers of the modern world (computers, television, grape soda, etc.)—meets his headstrong new neighbor Annie, her scientist father and his super-computer Cosmos, a machine capable of instantaneously taking the two young explorers anywhere in the universe. His decidedly naïve worldview undergoes a breathtaking transformation when he gets the opportunity to ride a comet through the solar system and witness the death of a black hole. The authors handily explore a range of themes, among them, the moral responsibilities of science, global warming and space colonization. Four insets of color photos from outer space and Parsons's cartoons enhance the broad appeal of this book, a true beginner's guide to A Brief History of Time
. Ages 8-up.