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Parker Bell and the Science of Friendship

by Cynthia PLATT
illus. by Rea Zhai. 160p. Clarion. May 2019. Tr $16.99. ISBN 9781328973474.
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Gr 2–5—Parker Bell wants to be a scientist like her heroes Jane Goodall and Mae Jemison. She's looking forward to participating in her school's Science Triathlon with her best friend, Cassie. But then Cassie invites Theo to join their team. Theo isn't too friendly toward Parker and she's worried that the group won't be able to work together and that Theo will steal Cassie from her. She soon discovers that while things don't always work out, it doesn't mean that good things can't still happen. Platt blends science concepts smoothly into her narrative, allowing readers to appreciate the value of scientific principles in their lives. Parker, Cassie, and Theo all have different interests but they manage to compromise and work together toward a common goal. Parker discovers that human relationships are as much an art form as a science when she sets up an experiment to work through her problems with Theo.
VERDICT A delightful combination of science and narrative that will work well in libraries where STEM stories and friendship tales are needed.
Reviewed by Heidi Grange, Summit Elementary School, Smithfield, UT , Apr 01, 2019

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