Kirkus
Copyright © Kirkus Reviews, used with permission.

“Science is the best!” When Libby’s teacher, Mr. Darwin, announces that a new student named Fatima will be joining their class, Libby suggests throwing her a welcome party. Libby’s friends volunteer to make a banner and bring decorations, while Libby will be responsible for the treats. The next day, Libby totes a bag filled with sundae toppings and a carton of ice cream. Fatima arrives and sits beside Libby, and they soon bond over their shared love of science. Mr. Darwin explains the term matter and its three states and offers familiar examples, with lots of eager input from the students. Everyone seems to grasp the concept. Recess begins, and they prepare for the party. But Libby realizes that she forgot to put the ice cream in the freezer, and it’s changed from a solid to a liquid. Luckily, Mr. Darwin supplies hot cocoa, and the children apply their knowledge. The steam coming from the cocoa is a gas, the marshmallows they add to their mugs are solid, and the cocoa is liquid. The welcome party has been a smashing success. The science is clearly explained, and the Popsicle-bright illustrations focus on the big-eyed children, who are all fully engaged and plainly adore all things STEM. Mr. Darwin is light-skinned, Libby presents Black, Fatima is brown-skinned, and the class is diverse. Science made clear—and fun. (recipes for ice pops and orange soda, quiz, glossary) (Easy reader. 5-8) Copyright © Kirkus Reviews, used with permission.

School Library Journal
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PreS-Gr 3—Libby and her classmates are excited when their science teacher, Mr. Darwin, announces a new student will be joining them the next day. The students quickly make a plan to welcome the newcomer with an ice cream party. Mr. Darwin starts the next day by teaching the young learners about the states of matter, laying the foundation for an unplanned hands-on experience. The story takes an unexpected turn when Libby forgets to put the ice cream in the freezer, thus transforming a solid into a liquid. Mr. Darwin turns this mishap into a valuable learning opportunity and suggests using hot chocolate as a replacement. The substitution of the hot chocolate becomes a catalyst for exploring the states of matter through a delightful experience involving ice, melting marshmallows, and a selection of delicious toppings. He cleverly incorporates scientific concepts, allowing the children to explore solids, liquids, and gases in a fun and interactive way. Digitally created illustrations depict a diverse classroom that makes a visually appealing backdrop for Libby's love of learning. The book's familiar setting, likable characters, and humorous statements and situations combine well with the age-appropriate science. The inclusion of back matter featuring a glossary and recipes enhances the book's educational value and makes it a valuable resource for STEM lessons. VERDICT A recommended resource for educators and a delightful read for young science enthusiasts. Ideal for science units, this book successfully combines informative content with fun.—Lynne Stover