Search This Blog

The Wells Bequest By: Polly Shulman

Monday, June 17, 2013
Leo never imagined that time travel might really be possible, or that the objects in H. G. Wells’ science fiction novels might actually exist. And when a miniature time machine appears in Leo’s bedroom, he has no idea who the tiny, beautiful girl is riding it. But in the few moments before it vanishes, returning to wherever—and whenever—it came from, he recognizes the other tiny rider: himself!

His search for the time machine, the girl, and his fate leads him to the New-York Circulating Material Repository, a magical library that lends out objects instead of books. Hidden away in the Repository basement is the Wells Bequest, a secret collection of powerful objects straight out of classic science fiction novels: robots, rockets, submarines, a shrink ray—and one very famous time machine. And when Leo’s adventure of a lifetime suddenly turns deadly, he must attempt a journey to 1895 to warn real-life scientist Nikola Tesla about a dangerous invention. A race for time is on!

Goodreads Summary


Leo’s family is composed of many great scientists.  Like his family members, Leo is an inventor and visionary; however, Leo’s machines do not turn out like he planned.  Leo is a relatable main character; anyone with a talented family can put him/herself in Leos’ shoes.   He is an excellent overall character and easy to love.
How would you react to a miniature time machine appearing in your room?  Leo handled it well, even though a tiny version of himself was piloting the time machine!  Tiny Leo was not alone; a girl was riding with the Mini-Leo.  The tiny duo had a message for Leo: he needs to read a specific book.  Mini-Leo and the girl then disappear…
When trying to fulfill the mission given to him by the mysterious time travelers, Leo meets a full-sized version of the girl who had been riding with Mini-Leo on the time machine working at the New York Circulating Materials Repository!  Leo quickly gets a job so he can work with Jaya (the girl) and learn more about the time machine.  Most of Leo’s co-workers are fun, but Simon is different…
The Wells Bequest is ideal for young readers of adventure.  Middle school aged students will love this novel and the first, though The Wells Bequest could be read and loved as a stand-alone.

Four Stars

*Reviewed by Kristin*


Find this book:



This product or book may have been distributed for review, this in no way affects my opinions or reviews.

2 comments:

  1. bn100 said...:

    Sounds like a smart family

  1. Berenice said...:

    This one sounds like fun! Maybe not something I'd read since I'm well over middle school, hehe, but still cool. Fantastic review. Thank you! =)