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Mirroring Real World Science
Alexander Fleming’s Penicillin Promise follows two siblings and their time-traveling Dr friend who visit London in 1928 to meet Alexander Fleming to learn about the discovery of penicillin. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?
The heart of this story grew from a simple idea, the moment when a scientific discovery becomes a turning point for humanity.
Alexander Fleming’s chance observation in 1928 changed the course of medicine, yet behind that historic moment was a very human story of curiosity, patience, and readiness to notice what others overlooked.
I wanted children to experience that spark for themselves. By sending Daniel, Jennifer, and Dr. K back to a bustling London laboratory, readers see how ordinary people, even those who doubt their own impact, can shape the world through careful observation and persistence.
The setup allows children to witness the discovery from the inside, giving them a sense of belonging in the world of science.
What is your approach to presenting scientific information and facts in a way that children will not only understand but be excited to learn more about the topic?
My approach is to bring science off the page and into the lived experience of the characters.
Children learn best when they feel connected to the story, so I weave scientific concepts into dialogue, sensory details, and moments of discovery rather than presenting them as lessons. I also rely on curiosity. When Daniel and Jennifer ask real questions, the answers arise naturally in the narrative.
That interplay mirrors how science works in the real world.
Rather than memorize facts, readers follow the excitement of the process, the surprise, the wonder, and the small steps that lead to breakthroughs.
The goal is for children to finish the book not only with new knowledge, but with the desire to keep exploring on their own.
Did you find anything in your research of this story that surprised you?
Yes, and it changed the way I wrote the book. I was struck by how accidental the discovery of penicillin truly was, yet how much preparation and scientific discipline went into recognizing its significance.
Fleming did not set out to discover an antibiotic. He simply had the habit of observing carefully, even when something looked like a mistake. I was also surprised by how long it took for penicillin to become widely available. Its early development required many hands working across years, countries, and laboratories.
That collective effort shaped the book’s message. Even a brilliant idea needs a community of people who believe in the work.
I wanted young readers to see that science is never a solo journey.
Can you tell us more about what’s in store for Dr. K, Daniel, and Jennifer, and the direction of the next book?
The adventure continues with Albert Einstein in Book 4: Albert Einstein’s Journey Through Relativity.
This story brings the siblings into the heart of one of the most transformative scientific periods of the twentieth century.
They travel from Germany to Switzerland and witness Einstein’s early curiosity, his time in the patent office, and the ideas that became the foundations of modern physics. The focus of the next book is not only on scientific concepts, but on resilience, imagination, and the courage to pursue questions that defy the expectations of the time. Dr. K, Daniel, and Jennifer continue to grow in their understanding of science, and also in their confidence as young thinkers who see the world with wonder and responsibility.
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In Alexander Fleming’s Penicillin Promise, readers embark on a thrilling journey that intertwines history and science. Guided by the enigmatic Dr. K, Jennifer and Daniel step into a world where a simple mold changes the course of medicine forever. They find themselves in St. Mary’s Hospital, where Fleming’s groundbreaking discovery unfolds before their eyes. The children experience the excitement of scientific inquiry, learning how curiosity and observation can lead to monumental breakthroughs. As they navigate through London’s rich tapestry of scientific landmarks, they uncover the significance of antibiotics in combating infections and saving lives. The story emphasizes the importance of perseverance, showcasing how Fleming’s relentless pursuit of knowledge led to a discovery that would revolutionize healthcare.
This engaging narrative not only entertains but also educates young readers about the fundamentals of bacteria and early medicine. It inspires them to appreciate the wonders of science and the unexpected paths that lead to great discoveries. Alexander Fleming’s Penicillin Promise is the third installment in the Dr. K’s Portal Through Time series, celebrating a quiet yet monumental achievement that continues to shape our world today. Through immersive storytelling, children are encouraged to explore their own interests in science and history, fostering a sense of wonder and a desire to learn.
Book 3 – Alexander Fleming’s Penicillin Promise: Dr. K’s Portal Through Time
Alexander Fleming’s Penicillin Promise drops you right into a bright, curious world where two kids tumble through time to witness one of the biggest medical discoveries in history. The story walks through Fleming’s accident with that famous mold, the slow uncovering of penicillin’s power, and the uphill climb to prove it mattered. What starts as a small, strange spot on a Petri dish grows into something world-changing, and the book turns that whole scientific moment into a warm adventure full of wonder. It blends history with imagination in a way that feels playful and still hits the big lessons.
I had a great time with this children’s book. The writing feels cozy and easy to fall into, like someone telling you a good story over hot chocolate. I loved how it never talks down to kids. Instead, it hands them big ideas wrapped in clear moments that feel alive. The scenes with Fleming in his messy lab made me grin because they show how discoveries are often born from accidents and curiosity. The tone bounces between gentle humor, quiet awe, and those sweet little emotional beats between Jennifer, Daniel, and Dr. K. I kept finding myself smiling when the “mold juice” nickname came up.
There was also something surprisingly moving about watching these kids witness history. Seeing Fleming’s doubts, his patience, and his strange mix of order and chaos gave the journey real heart. The book does this neat thing where it makes science feel adventurous without turning it into something cold or technical. The moments with early patients hit me hardest, especially when Fleming realizes penicillin works, but there simply is not enough of it yet. The artwork throughout the book has a polished, anime-influenced aesthetic that creates a warm and approachable atmosphere. The character designs are the standout element, characterized by clean linework and expressive faces, like in a graphic novel.
I would recommend this children’s chapter book to curious kids, teachers, parents, and any adult who wants a warm and hopeful reminder that small discoveries can grow into life-changing things. If you enjoy stories that mix history with heart, or if you just want something that lights up your sense of wonder, this one is a perfect fit.
Pages: 113 | ASIN : B0FSTF3PDJ
Book 1 – Galileo’s Points of Light in the Night Sky (Dr. K’s Portal Through Time)
Galileo’s Points of Light in the Night Sky tells the story of two siblings, Jennifer and Daniel, who, with the help of the mysterious Dr. K, travel back in time to meet Galileo Galilei. Through their journey, they witness Galileo’s discoveries firsthand, from the moons of Jupiter to the phases of Venus. They even help him build a telescope. Along the way, the children learn not just about the science of the universe but also about curiosity, resilience, and the courage it takes to question the world around you. It is part history, part science, and part adventure, written with young readers in mind, and it manages to make centuries-old discoveries feel fresh and exciting.
I found myself charmed by the storytelling in this children’s book. The voice is warm and approachable, and the author makes sure the science never feels heavy. Instead, it comes alive through dialogue and adventure. The way the kids interact with Galileo is delightful, and their wonder mirrors what I imagine any curious child would feel meeting a great mind of the past. I also liked how the book wove in real facts without turning it into a dry lesson.
There were moments where the writing leaned into explanation, and I felt the momentum slow. Still, those small bumps didn’t take away from the bigger experience. The heart of the book is curiosity, and that comes through loud and clear. I also appreciated how the narrative balanced Jennifer’s voice with Daniel’s. It gave the story a sense of shared discovery, which felt true to childhood adventures.
I’d recommend this chapter book to kids who are fascinated by space, science, or history, and also to parents or teachers looking for an engaging way to spark that interest. It’s perfect for middle-grade readers who enjoy a mix of imagination and learning. The story encourages children to ask questions and to see science as an adventure. For me, that’s its greatest success.
Pages: 104 | ASIN : B0F4NQTCNP
Book 1 – Galileo’s Points of Light in the Night Sky (Dr. K’s Portal Through Time)
Dr. Katherine E.A. Korkidis’s Galileo’s Points of Light in the Night Sky is the first book in her Dr. K’s Portal Through Time series, and it’s part history lesson, part science primer, and part adventure story. It follows Jennifer and Daniel, a pair of curious siblings, who stumble upon Dr. K and her magical time portal. Together, they travel back to Renaissance Italy, step into Galileo Galilei’s workshop, and experience firsthand the wonder of his telescope and the audacity of his discoveries. Along the way, the kids not only learn about Jupiter’s moons, the phases of Venus, and the birth of modern astronomy, but they also discover the importance of curiosity, observation, and persistence.
The first thing that caught my attention about this book was how effortlessly it weaves fact with fiction. For instance, the scene where Jennifer helps Galileo build his telescope is not just a charming piece of dialogue; it’s a clever way to introduce kids to optics and focal lengths without feeling like a lecture. I found myself smiling at Jennifer’s excitement when the blurry image sharpened into Jupiter and its moons. That moment carried the same sense of awe I remember from my own first look through a telescope. The science was accurate but approachable, and that balance is hard to pull off in a children’s story.
I also appreciated how personal the narrative felt at times. Jennifer’s relationship with her grandfather in the opening chapter set the tone beautifully. Their bond over stargazing gave the adventure real heart. Later, when Jennifer and Daniel stood side by side at the end, promising to always explore the stars together, it felt earned. The book wasn’t just about Galileo’s discoveries; it was about how science can be shared, passed down, and made meaningful within families. That emotional thread made the whole story more engaging.
Another highlight was the way Dr. Korkidis portrayed Galileo himself. She didn’t make him an intimidating genius, but rather a patient teacher who invited the kids into his world. His explanation of the moons of Jupiter and how he realized they orbited the planet was fascinating, and his gentle encouragement to keep asking questions stuck with me. The inclusion of real historical details, like the Medicean stars and Galileo’s struggles with skepticism, grounded the story while still keeping it light enough for younger readers.
This book left me feeling inspired and a little nostalgic. It reminded me of the first time I realized science could be an adventure. I’d recommend Galileo’s Points of Light in the Night Sky to curious kids around 7–12, but also to parents, grandparents, and teachers who want to spark a love of STEM in children. It’s not just a story about Galileo, it’s a story about why wonder matters, why questions matter, and why we should never stop looking up.
Pages: 104 | ASIN : B0F4NQTCNP
Partners in Time
Partners in Time by Nicholas Hodgson offers readers an exhilarating journey through the realms of mystery and time travel. Dive into the heart of an enigmatic tale, where an unseen door within a secluded chamber reveals the path to alternate dimensions. Two companions propelled into a bewildering quest, land in an unfamiliar future. A chilling, distorted reality awaits when they return to their known world. They embark on an urgent race, navigating the secrets buried within the globe’s most celebrated landmarks. The tale seamlessly blends the boundaries of past and future, delving deep into the tenacity of friendship, the emergence of unexpected bonds, and the fate of destinies teetering on a fragile edge.
Merging the intricate elements of mystery with the allure of time travel requires a deft hand. Nicholas Hodgson not only achieves this blend but truly shines in his execution. From the outset, readers will find themselves ensnared by the gripping narrative.
A distinguishing feature of this novel is Hodgson’s distinctive voice. He animates his characters with depth and nuance, constructing a tale that’s smartly laid out. The plot is rife with unexpected turns that fit organically into the story, a testament to the author’s prowess in foreshadowing and weaving a tale.
A standout aspect of this book is the vibrant portrayal of its characters—they leap off the pages with authenticity and vigor. The narrative flows effortlessly, yet the suspense continually beckons readers to turn one more page.
Hodgson’s narrative talents shine brightly, captivating his audience from start to finish. The tale is so enthralling that one simultaneously dreads its conclusion yet eagerly anticipates each new development—a testament to the book’s magnetic pull.
For fans of mystery and time-travel genres, Partners in Time is an essential addition to your reading list. Hodgson’s knack for spinning a riveting tale and his meticulously crafted characters assure a mesmerizing voyage through time.
Pages: 219 | ASIN : B0CDY5K9KM
LITERARY TITAN 