How to Test a Friendship

February 15, 2020
When third graders Pablo, Violet, and Deepak enter the Maker Maze, their new friendship--and their knowledge of science--is put to the test. Pablo is looking forward to third grade. He's got a spaceship T-shirt that matches his sneakers, he's in the same class as his best friend, Violet, and he is ready to learn about his favorite subject: science. But new student Deepak's wearing the exact same outfit and starts to make friends with Violet. Pablo feels jealous, but before he can process his feelings, he, Violet, and Deepak discover a mysterious riddle. Solving it together sucks them into a magical scientific world where a rainbow-haired white woman named Dr. Crisp tells them that they must solve a series of puzzles to get out of the Maker Maze. Using their knowledge of ecosystems, the three must finish in time--which they can only do if Pablo puts aside his resentment of Deepak. The book features a diverse and likable cast. Pablo's Puerto Rican and speaks Spanish, Deepak is South Asian, and Violet appears black in the illustrations. The language in this chapter book is light and easy to read, and the scientific content is accurate, interesting, and well presented. At times, the conflict between Pablo and Deepak feels forced, but the momentum of the maze challenge carries the story past a few awkward moments. The backmatter offers two science activities. An educational and entertaining series opener. (Science fiction. 6-9)

COPYRIGHT(2020) Kirkus Reviews, ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.

March 1, 2020
Grades 1-3 It's the first day back to school and Pablo and Violet, best friends since forever, are super excited to be in the same class together. Especially when they get to study their favorite subject: science! They're soon joined by a new teammate, Deepak?a change Pablo isn't too sure he likes. When Mr. Eng, the science teacher, gives the kids an in-class assignment, something weird happens: the three kids are transported into a Maker Maze where, with help from wild Dr. Crisp, they must complete challenges in order to return to their world. Will they make it? And will Pablo learn to accept Deepak? This early reader is fun and relatable as well as educational. As a bonus, it includes easy maker activities for kids to complete.(Reprinted with permission of Booklist, copyright 2020, American Library Association.)

June 1, 2020

K-Gr 3-Pablo and Violet are best friends. When new student Deepak joins their duo, Pablo isn't so sure he likes the competition as Violet's best friend. The three are grouped together for a science project, and before long, they're whisked away to a magical Maker Maze run by the eccentric Dr. Crisp. The three must work together to complete three levels of the maze, and to cement their friendship as a trio, before time runs out. This series is great for kids who are looking for an adventure that isn't scary. The science theme is fun, educational, and age-appropriate for the intended audience. The cartoonish illustrations pair well with the text and add context and emotion to the plot. VERDICT Fans of "The Magic School Bus" series will enjoy this as a step up in reading level with a similar theme. A recommended purchase for public and school libraries.-Jessica Trafton, Skidompha Lib., Damariscotta, ME

Copyright 2020 School Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.