Superbugs and Pandemics (Max Axiom and the Society of Super Scientists)

In the Max Axiom and the Society of Super Scientists series--a subset of the long-running Max Axiom informational graphic novels--Max, a superhero-like scientist, joins forces with younger Lizzy and Nick (all three of whom have brown skin) and Spark the dog to investigate global scientific and environmental issues. Each volume starts with a dilemma that challenges the friends to research the science behind it and come up with possible solutions. Digitally rendered, action-packed scenes range from covering the scientists' work in the field to showing them gathering data in the lab, while colorful charts and graphs extend the science. The Axiom team learns how climate change is contributing to a rise in natural disasters and other environmental calamities, like melting polar ice, in Climate Change on the Brink. In Food Scarcity and Hunger, the scientists look at home wildfires, flooding, drought, and other environmental changes create food scarcity. Max and his team explore a water-treatment plant and discover how environmental factors are causing water scarcity around the world in Global Water Crisis. After hearing about a virus similar to COVID-19, the scientists travel back in time to study other pandemics and return to explore zoonotic diseases and their spread in Superbugs and Pandemics. A round-up of related facts concludes each book in this engaging and accessible series.--Angela Leeper

Gr 4-6--Fans of Max Axiom's previous books will be pleased to see this series take on topics of international interest, such as climate change and pandemics. The graphic novel format captures the details as Max and his team investigate the causes and possible solutions to problems such as food scarcity or water shortages. Maps and diagrams are incorporated into the illustrations. Sidebars link the topic to recent events, such as the water crisis in Flint, MI, or the statistics on how contagious various pandemics have been through the years. Back matter includes a page of additional information about the topic, a list of suggested websites and further reading, and a glossary. VERDICT A series that is sure to be in high demand by science enthusiasts and graphic novel fans.

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