A wrinkle in time by Madeleine L'Engle

Time quintet book 1. Penguin, 2018. ISBN 9780241331163
(Age: 8+) Highly recommended. Themes: Science fiction. Individuality. Time. STEM. This movie tie-in edition of the classic novel first published in 1962, will bring L'Engle's wonderful book to the attention of many more readers. This was the first time that I had read the book and found that its timeless themes of being true to yourself and fighting evil would still resonate for today's readers.
Accompanied by her brother Charles Wallace and friend Calvin, Meg Murry goes on a quest to find her missing father, who had been experimenting with time travel. Helped along the way by Mrs Whatsit, Mrs Who and Mrs Which, they travel through time to another dimension where they encounter the evil It, who wants everyone to conform to its idea of perfection.
L'Engle has high expectations of her young readers and their ability to follow difficult concepts, but at the same time has written an exciting adventure story that has great appeal. The book is sprinkled with quotes from philosophers and scientists and she explores scientific and mathematical concepts along the way. Readers undoubtedly will be pursuing the meaning of the word 'tesseract' as they follow Meg and her companions' dangerous journey through time and space.
Meg's character stands out. She is often in trouble at school and doesn't fit the expected mould but when she is faced with danger, she is able to come up with solutions with courage and determination. Her relationship with her brother and Calvin are realistic and the actions of Mrs Whatsit, Mrs Who and Mrs Which will keep readers enthralled as they try to work out just who and what they are.
I believe another generation of readers will be inspired by A wrinkle in time, whether it is read aloud to them or they discover its adventure and challenge for themselves. Readers will also find the section at the back with information about the author to be very informative as well.
Pat Pledger