In this fun young-middle-grade novel with STEM appeal, Parker really wants to win the school Science Triathlon - but first she'll have to figure out how to keep her BFF from being stolen. Budding scientist Parker Bell really wants to win the school Science Triathlon and follow in the footsteps of her idols, chimpanzee expert Jane Goodall and astronaut Mae Jemison. She's sure that if she teams up with her trivia whiz BFF, Cassie, they will dominate the Science Bee, Egg Drop, and Animal Adaptation Presentation. When Cassie invites her new friend, Theo, to join their team, Parker is worried - that Theo won't help them win and might steal her best friend. As the three work together, Parker learns that you don't have to be the best to be a real scientist and a good friend. AGES: 7 to 10 AUTHOR: Cynthia Platt received her MFA in Creative Writing from Lesley University and is the author of several books for children, including the picture books Grow, A Little Bit of Love, and Panda-Monium!, and the middle grade novel Parker Bell and the Science of Friendship. A long-time children's book editor, Cynthia has also worked as a high school English teacher and at educational nonprofits. SELLING POINTS: . The topic of women in science and technology is constantly in the news, and makes for best-selling children's books . Introduces scientific inquiry, engineering, robotics, and more in a fun and kid-accessible way. . Parker Bell is a spunky and strong girl who knows what she wants and is not afraid to go after her dreams. . Anxiety about losing friends and making new ones is something all kids can relate to.

Illustrated by: Rea Zhai