📖 Overview
Simon Bloom follows a sixth-grade boy who discovers a mysterious book that grants him control over the laws of physics. After finding the book in a hidden forest, Simon and his friends Owen and Alysha learn to manipulate fundamental forces like gravity and friction.
The story takes place in Lawnville, New Jersey, where Simon becomes entangled with a secret organization called the Knowledge Union. As he develops his newfound powers, he must protect the book from those who seek to steal it and use its abilities for nefarious purposes.
This middle-grade fantasy series combines real scientific principles with adventure and magic. Through Simon's journey of discovery, the book explores themes of friendship, responsibility, and the relationship between knowledge and power.
👀 Reviews
Readers describe Simon Bloom as a whimsical fantasy that takes a unique approach by incorporating real science and physics concepts into its magic system.
What readers liked:
- Creative blend of science and magic
- Educational elements woven naturally into the story
- Fast-paced adventure sequences
- Appeals to science-minded kids
- Strong friendship dynamics between characters
What readers disliked:
- Some found the science explanations too complex or interrupting
- Character development felt rushed
- Plot pacing uneven in middle sections
- Several noted it was hard to connect emotionally with Simon
Ratings:
Goodreads: 3.8/5 (1,200+ ratings)
Amazon: 4.2/5 (48 ratings)
Notable reader comments:
"Perfect for kids who love both Harry Potter and science class" - Goodreads reviewer
"The physics lessons sometimes took me out of the story" - Amazon reviewer
"Fun concept but needed more character depth" - Barnes & Noble reviewer
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The Name of This Book Is Secret by Pseudonymous Bosch Two children uncover an ancient society of magicians who seek to preserve the secrets of alchemy and immortality.
The Mysterious Benedict Society by Trenton Lee Stewart Four gifted children infiltrate a mysterious institute through a series of complex tests and puzzles to stop a villain's mind-control plot.
The Books of Beginning: The Emerald Atlas by John Stephens Three siblings discover a book of power that allows them to travel through time and space while being pursued by forces of dark magic.
The Seems: The Glitch in Sleep by John Hulme A boy becomes a Fixer in a parallel universe responsible for maintaining the laws of physics and natural order in our world.
🤔 Interesting facts
🔬 The Dunkerhook Woods, where Simon finds the physics book, is based on a real location in Paramus, New Jersey, known for its historical significance and local legends.
📚 Michael Reisman worked as a TV writer and producer before publishing Simon Bloom, which was his debut novel.
⚡ Each chapter in the book begins with a specific physics principle that becomes crucial to that section's plot development.
🎓 The science concepts featured in the book were vetted by actual physicists to ensure accuracy while maintaining accessibility for young readers.
🌟 The book has been used in some middle school science classes as supplementary reading material to help students engage with physics concepts through storytelling.