Follow the rainbow!
The water helps us see all the colors that are hidden in the sunlight! That's dispersion."
All the other fairies believe in magic; Esther does not. She knows that science explains most things that the others think are magical. She and her bird, Albert, do their best to discount the learning that takes place in magic class, even though it is a teacher who expounds on the principles of a magical world.
"Fairies were born when a drop of rain
passed through a rainbow and landed on
a flower bud. When the flower bloomed,
the first fairy took flight."
Esther makes all the arguments, using scientific facts while explaining the ways of the natural world. She suggests they use the scientific method before making statements that are untrue:
"Ask a question!
Do some research to find out more!
Make a hypothesis!
(A fancy word for guess.)
Do experiments!
Study the results!
Draw a conclusion!"
The fairies suggest magic would be easier. Poor Esther. She has so much to teach, and no one to listen. A dying tree provides what is needed to show the fairies that magic in all of its forms will not cure that tree. So Esther sets to work, using the scientific to find an answer. In the end there is a question about who really healed it. But ... Esther also encouraged new questions from progressive fairies ... and that is the best thing about science, isn't it? She has exactly what they need to help them find out.
Don't miss a single detail in the fine digital artwork, and have supplies at hand for children to try their hand at the experiment suggested following the story. I read that this is the first in a new series from the exuberant and engaging Ms. Spires. Young readers love her Binky series, and there is certainly much to admire in this first book about the plucky Esther. I will look forward to seeing another.
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