Cover and chapter opener illustrations by Matt Saunders. Inside illustrations by Spike Gerrell.

Published by Nosy Crow, 2016.

A children’s book about quantum physics? Yes, and black holes and parallel universes too. Albie Bright is the ten year old son of two world renowned scientists. When his mom dies of cancer, he decides to use quantum physics to find her. Equipped with his mom’s super sophisticated laptop, a Geiger counter, a banana and a cardboard box, he develops Quantum Banana Theory and sets off on a quest to be reunited with his mother. His adventure takes him to parallel universes where he comes face to face with other versions of himself, his classmates and his family.

Despite the themes of loss and grief, the tone of the book is surprisingly lighthearted and there is a lot of humour. I laughed out loud on a number of occasions. The story rattles along at a good pace and there are plenty of twists and turns. The final scenes are beautiful and moving.

The science is accessible and exciting – the science of science fiction – and will fuel or spark scientifically curious minds.

Rating: 💙💙💙💙

Suitable for children aged 8+

I borrowed this book from Solihull Libraries.