Step into the electrifying world of Nick and Tesla, where brainy 11-year-old twins solve mysteries with a dash of humor and a whole lot of science! The Nick and Tesla series, penned by 'Science Bob' Pflugfelder and Steve Hockensmith, is a delightful blend of middle-grade adventure, quirky characters, and hands-on STEM experiments that invite young readers to build their own gadgets. Perfect for curious minds, this series sparks a love for science while delivering action-packed stories.
When Nick and Tesla’s parents vanish under mysterious circumstances, the twins are whisked away to live with their eccentric Uncle Newt, a mad scientist with a basement lab full of wild inventions. From there, each book unfolds a new mystery, with the twins crafting clever contraptions—like bottle rocket launchers or 9-volt burglar alarms—to outsmart villains and save the day.
How Nick and Tesla Began
Bob Pflugfelder, a science educator known as 'Science Bob,' teamed up with author Steve Hockensmith to create a series that makes science as thrilling as a detective novel. Inspired by his passion for hands-on learning, Pflugfelder wanted to weave real, buildable experiments into a story that would captivate young readers. Published by Quirk Books, the series kicked off in 2013 with Nick and Tesla’s High-Voltage Danger Lab, blending Pflugfelder’s STEM expertise with Hockensmith’s knack for fast-paced, humorous storytelling.
The Heart of Nick and Tesla
The series spans six books, each packed with mysteries and DIY projects. In Nick and Tesla’s High-Voltage Danger Lab, the twins investigate a creepy mansion in their neighborhood, building gadgets like electromagnets to uncover secrets. Nick and Tesla’s Robot Army Rampage sees them tackling rogue robots with hoverbots and bristle bots. Nick and Tesla’s Secret Agent Gadget Battle dives into espionage, with spy cameras and code wheels, while Nick and Tesla’s Solar-Powered Showdown wraps up the saga as the twins hunt for their missing parents using solar-powered inventions.
Set in the small town of Half Moon Bay, California, the series thrives on its mix of humor, suspense, and MacGyver-style ingenuity. Themes of teamwork, curiosity, and creative problem-solving shine through, with Nick and Tesla’s sibling dynamic adding heart. The inclusion of step-by-step project instructions—using everyday items like batteries, soda bottles, and PVC pipes—sets the series apart, turning reading into an interactive STEM adventure.
Why Nick and Tesla Resonates
The Nick and Tesla series has carved a niche in middle-grade fiction by making science accessible and fun. Teachers and librarians praise its ability to hook reluctant readers, especially those drawn to STEM, with reviews calling it 'a mystery, adventure, and activity book all rolled into one.' Its impact lies in empowering kids to experiment and invent, fostering confidence in their own creativity. Fans adore the cliffhangers and quirky characters, ensuring the series remains a go-to for young sleuths and budding scientists.
- First Book Published: 2013
- Number of Books: 6
- Target Age: 9–12 years
- Key Themes: Science, mystery, teamwork
Dive into Nick and Tesla’s High-Voltage Danger Lab and join the twins on a thrilling ride where science meets sleuthing. Grab a copy, gather some household supplies, and get ready to build your own adventure!