| Reviewed by Dorothy – 15/11/07
Two items of good news First good news, this book has been published in time for Christmas and so solves problems for those wanting to buy the children a quality book – and that is how I would describe George’s Secret Key to the Universe. Lucy Hawking’s gifted storytelling grips the reader from page one, and with Stephen Hawking’s ability to help us understand astronomy the inserts about this clarify George’s adventures. The cover is eye-catching, it has a gripping story, it gives the reader accessible information about astronomy, Garry Parsons’ illustrations are a delight for readers of any age, and the full-colour photographs of some of the most impressive sights in space highlight the explanations in the text.
Second good news, George’s Secret Key to the Universe is the first of series of three titles, so keep watching for the release of the others.
The plot The story begins with George’s pet pig breaking through the fence into the neighbour’s garden. George’s parents are alternative lifestylers with strict views on the management of their lives without anything related to modern technology like household appliances or television, and the very idea of having a computer fills them with horror. They take part in protest marches with banners saying “Save the Planet” and yelling out slogans such as “Recycle plastic bags”, “Ban the car”, and “The planet is dying”. They eat a simple vegetarian diet and George’s “healthy” lunch with none of the chocolate bars, brightly coloured crisps or fizzy orange enjoyed by the other children marks him out as different. All of this makes George feel that he cannot relate to the others. A gang of boys in the school set about terrifying George and making his life a misery.
In contrast to all this George has a wonderful experience on the other side of the fence. He finds his lost pig but he also meets Annie and her scientist father Eric and is introduced to the amazing powers of a computer called Cosmos. With the secret key George enters the world of outer space through Cosmos and he and Annie have astonishing adventures, but they and Eric are threatened by appalling dangers.
The plot develops with all the ingredients of a first class adventure story. The two young adventurers, the contrasted worlds of George’s family and Annie’s, dangerous exploits, astonishing coincidences, the good scientist, Eric and adults who are supportive, contrasted with a gang of ruffians and an evil adult scientist who wants to steal Cosmos.
At each stage in their travels through outer space there are panels giving the scientific background to what is happening, like a diagram and explanation of the solar system, black holes, an asteroid belt, and the planets Saturn and Mars.
The authors’ goals Stephen Hawking wanted to write a truly scientific work of science fiction. Lucy Hawking wrote the narrative. The French physicist whose these was based on Hawking’s work also assisted. Galfard said that all three wanted to “provide a modern vision of cosmology from the Big Bang to the present day” with the emphasis on fact,. not magic.
A book for all ages This book is listed as being for 9-11 year olds. I recommend it as a Christmas gift, but I suggest you give it to children who will share it with you as it is an enjoyable and informative read for all ages.
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