George's Secret Key to the Universe

A parent would reach for this book when their child begins asking big, existential questions about the stars, black holes, and the origin of our world that feel impossible to answer. It is the perfect bridge for a young reader who loves fantastical adventures but is starting to crave real-world scientific facts. The story follows George, a boy from an eco-conscious family, who discovers his neighbor owns the world's most powerful computer, allowing them to travel through space in a high-stakes race against a villainous scientist. Beyond the cosmic journey, the book explores the tension between different worldviews: George's parents are technophobic and skeptical of modern science, while his neighbors represent logic and discovery. This creates a rich emotional landscape for discussing how to stay true to oneself while navigating different perspectives. It is ideally suited for ages 8 to 12, offering a mix of accessible fiction and actual scientific essays written by Stephen Hawking, making it both a thrilling bedtime story and a valuable educational resource.