Qianna and her squad of friends are dropping beats in a music studio when a “time quake” erases subway transit, high-speed trains, roller coasters, and other forms of transport that rely on clean electric propulsion in this STEM-inspired graphic novel, part of the Qianna and the Quantum Train series (4 titles). Plenty of action and dialogue guide the story as the squad escapes on a quantum train and travels back to 1885 Brooklyn. A rip between worlds leads them to a bizarre underground city beaming with electricity—and to Granville T. Woods, a once-disrespected but now-revered Black pioneering engineer and inventor with expertise in electricity. From Woods, the squad learns about dynamic electricity, which is reinforced in a concluding explanation of subway cars and their third rail system.

Qianna and her diverse group of friends meet famous scientists, inventors, and engineers by traveling through time and space on the Quantum Train. Readers follow along on these adventures as the kids visit Dr. Wu, George Washington Carver, and other greats of STEM history. These time travel adventures introduce students to physics, the creation of the artificial heart, and biochemical and electrical engineering. The graphic novels have a “hip-hop spin,” and the friends meet a diverse range of science heroes from various eras. The stories are supported by back matter including a glossary, suggested books and websites for further reading, explanations of key concepts such as particle accelerators, and biographical profiles on the featured scientists. VERDICT An engaging series perfect for fans of Max Axiom and other STEM graphic series. Great for encouraging readers who may be reluctant scientists, but who enjoy the graphic novel presentation.