Parents' Guide to

At the Bottom of the World: Jack and the Geniuses, Book 1

By Darienne Stewart, Common Sense Media Reviewer

age 8+

Bill Nye's passion, humor shine in science-rich mystery.

Book Bill Nye, Gregory Mone Science 2017
At the Bottom of the World: Jack and the Geniuses, Book 1 Poster Image

A Lot or a Little?

What you will—and won't—find in this book.

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age 9+

Based on 1 parent review

B_fahre
B_fahre Adult
August 10, 2018
age 9+

Accurate, well researched science, with relatable main character, and fun mystery

This book was educational, with a main character I think kids will really be able to relate to, especially children who feel like they may not measure up to smarter siblings or classmates. While Jack claims not to be a genius, and he's not one in the same sense as his siblings, he's got stronger ideas than them in other areas, and in the end it's his talents that save the day, so the book does a great job of demonstrating that everyone is good at different things and that doesn't make them less smart than others. The science was good, with explanations by the author in the back for the science they used to base all of the inventions mentioned in the book. The mystery of the missing person is surprisingly good for a book that isn't branding itself as a mystery for kids.

This title has:

Educational value
Great messages
See all 1 parent review

What's the Story?

AT THE BOTTOM OF THE WORLD introduces 12-year-old Jack, who's overshadowed by his foster siblings Ava, 12, an engineering genius, and Matt, 15. When wealthy inventor Hank Witherspoon recruits the kids to help with his work, Jack ends up doing housekeeping and secretarial work. It's a welcome break to join Hank on a trip to Antarctica. Hank's friend Anna, a quirky biologist, is missing from the science base, and Jake is the first to realize she isn't just off on a research trip. Jake leads Ava and Matt on a mission to figure out where Anna might have gone and why -- and to try to rescue her before an approaching storm makes the effort hopeless.

Is It Any Good?

Our review:
Parents say: (1):
Kids say: Not yet rated

Bill Nye is beloved for getting kids excited about science, and he hits a bull's-eye again with this charming middle-grade debut -- with co-author Gregory Mone -- starring three smart, curious kids. At the Bottom of the World kicks off their Jack and the Geniuses series by deftly blending realistic tech thrills with human warmth and humor. The science is woven in seamlessly, deepening but never disrupting the story. In a nod to his TV show legacy, Nye adds fascinating notes at the end on the real-world inspirations for the devices featured in the story and Antarctica and its role in scientific research.

Despite his unlikely circumstances, Jack has a realistic 12-year-old voice. He's a self-deprecating kid who likes an occasional prank, but his understanding of other people is key to the team's success. Nick Iluzada's detail and full-page illustrations, done in shades of blue, add to the fun.

Talk to Your Kids About ...

  • Families can talk about the physically demanding scientific work shown in Jack and the Geniuses at the Bottom of the World. Were you surprised by the bravery, personal sacrifices, and hard work on the part of researchers at McMurdo Station?

  • Do you think this story strikes the right balance between plot and educational material?

  • There's quite a bit of jealousy and guardedness among the scientists and engineers, but they also praise each other's work. When you're pursuing a new idea, do you feel protective of it?

Book Details

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