Jack and the Geniuses: At the Bottom of the World
#1 of 3 in Jack and the Geniuses Series
What’s inside...
New York Times bestselling authors Bill Nye the Science Guy and Gregory Mone launch a new middle-grade chapter book series, Jack and the Geniuses. In the first book, Jack and his genius foster siblings, Ava and Matt, embark on a scientific adventure to Antarctica for a prestigious competition. They're faced with a mystery when a fellow scientist goes missing, along with her research. The trio must solve the mystery, integrating real science facts with humor and suspense. The series is perfect for STEM education, featuring an engaging ensemble cast and accessible language, along with a science project for readers to try.
Character compass
Jack
Ava
Matt
Dr. Hank Witherspoon
Discussion points
What do you think motivated Jack and his siblings to embark on such an adventurous journey to Antarctica?
How do Jack and his team use science and technology to solve the mysteries they encounter?
What qualities do you admire in the characters, and which ones would you like to develop in yourself?
If you were part of Jack's team, what skills would you contribute and why?
How do you think the setting of Antarctica affects the story and the characters?
Tip: Role play these questions
Before reading, explore what your child already knows about Antarctica and discuss why it makes an exciting setting for a mystery.
While reading, ask your child to predict the solutions to problems Jack and the team face, reinforcing their problem-solving skills.
After reading, encourage your child to draw or write about their favorite gadget or scientific tool used in the book, deepening their understanding and appreciation for science.
Discuss the teamwork demonstrated by the characters, linking it to the importance of collaboration in real-life achievements.
Encourage your child to express which part of the book excited them the most and why, fostering a deeper emotional connection to reading.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Teamwork and Collaboration
Explanation: The protagonists, Jack and his genius foster siblings, rely on teamwork to solve the mysteries they encounter in Antarctica. Their success comes from pooling their diverse skill sets and working together.
Real-World Application: Children learn the importance of collaborating with others to achieve common goals, which is a valuable skill in school projects and family activities.
Example Lesson: Curiosity and Learning
Explanation: The book emphasizes the excitement of scientific discovery and problem-solving. The characters' journey is driven by their curiosity and thirst for knowledge.
Real-World Application: Encourages children to ask questions and seek out answers, fostering a lifelong love of learning and exploration.
Example Lesson: Resilience in the Face of Challenges
Explanation: Throughout their adventure, the characters face various obstacles and setbacks, yet they persist and adapt to their circumstances.
Real-World Application: Teaches children the importance of perseverance and bouncing back from difficulties, helping them to face academic and personal challenges.
Example Lesson: Environmental Awareness
Explanation: Set in Antarctica, the book introduces young readers to concepts of environmental science and the importance of protecting our planet.
Real-World Application: Instills a sense of responsibility towards the environment, encouraging eco-friendly practices like recycling and conserving energy at home and school.