In Gil’s uproarious but informative middle grade graphic novel, five adults trapped in kids’ bodies rollick through S.T.E.M. based adventures, conducting scientific research while completing top-secret projects for the government. Known as the Whiz Kids of D.A.R.P.A (Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency), physicist Isaac, computer scientist Cody, mechanical engineer Quentin, Wade—a biologist and behavioral scientist trapped inside a bear’s body—and linguist Rosie escape tornadoes, study animals’ body chemistry as a form of communication, visit the “Spacecraft Cemetery” Point Nemo, and more in their pursuit of scientific quests tasked by the U.S. Space Force.

The unique blend of sarcasm and intellectual wit with complex science makes this graphic novel, the first in the series, stand out. Gil’s characters are deliciously diverse—both in their personalities and fields of expertise—and their tasks, from freezing mud to prevent a building cave-in to harnessing soundwaves when fighting a forest fire, create a no-holds-barred scientific adventure that never slows down. “Science Check” components at the end of every section sum up the facts and spell out the history behind each lesson, like how Leonardo DaVinci influenced propeller blades or the background of satellites, and Gil (author of graphic novel Last Knight in the City, among others) includes QR codes for more information.

The Whiz Kids definitely have their work cut out for them, but Gil’s fun, inviting text makes the job as entertaining as it is important. Whether it’s investigating reported alien sightings in Arkansas or the group helping Wade navigate how to be a talking bear and a scientist at the same time, readers will find much to love here. Serious moments dot the landscape as well, particularly Cody’s experience with gender dysphoria, which Gil handles respectfully, stirring powerful emotions for readers as Cody bravely tells his parents “I have a second chance to live my life truer to how I feel inside!”

Takeaway: Fun-filled, S.T.E.M-heavy graphic novel for middle grade readers.

Comparable Titles: Matthew McElligott's Mad Scientist Academy series, Otis Frampton's Oddly Normal series.

Production grades
Cover: A
Design and typography: A
Illustrations: A
Editing: A
Marketing copy: A