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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
Nemesis and the Vault of Lost Time
P.J. Davis’ Nemesis and The Vault of Lost Time transports young readers into an enchanting realm of fantasy and adventure. Central to the story is Max, a daydreamer with an insatiable curiosity, who finds himself in the heart of a thrilling escapade after a chance encounter with a cryptic professor in his uncle’s store. The narrative escalates as Max, alongside his loyal friends Derek and Samantha, learns of a sinister plot involving the theft of time from the universe, sparking an exciting quest for justice and for personal revelations, particularly about his scientist father.
Aimed primarily at middle-grade audiences, this thrilling fantasy novel distinguishes itself through Davis’ accessible writing style. He utilizes a gentle tone, straightforward vocabulary, and a flowing narrative approach that makes the complex themes approachable for younger readers. The book’s imaginative prowess is further enhanced by its illustrations, which serve as a delightful guide through the story’s intricate settings and help bring the characters to life.
The plot of Nemesis and The Vault of Lost Time is a tapestry of surprises characterized by its unforeseen twists and turns. It’s this element of suspense that grips the readers, while the vivid descriptions create immersive visual experiences. Beyond its adventurous core, this mystery novel delves into themes of friendship and the nuanced dynamics of father-son relationships, offering a multi-layered reading experience.
I think Max’s character will resonate with young readers because he reflects their own dreams and thirst for adventure. His journey is more than an adventure, though; I felt like it was an exploration of new worlds and perspectives, offering a welcome escape from everyday life.
Nemesis and The Vault of Lost Time is an engaging read that stimulates the imagination and speaks to the youthful spirit of discovery and camaraderie.
Pages: 240 | ASIN : B0CVS2P3N3
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 