Middle school twin brother and sister, Jennifer and Jake McKenzie lost their mom in a tragic auto accident, and their emotionally distant, famous archaeologist father spends most of his time halfway around the world. The twins aren’t happy when dad summons them to Israel to help on his new secret project—a time travel machine. But mysterious saboteurs, evil spiritual forces and a cranky old billionaire threaten to derail Dads experiment permanently. Somehow, it all comes down to Jennifer and Jake. Will they stand strong long enough to save the project?
Bill Myers captures the middle school mindset; there’s plenty of brother and sister squabbling, the budding of a first crush that may be betrayed, doubts, grief, and a fractured family. But still, if you like humor, you’ll love The Machine. Although a little slapstick, it’s not as over the top as his previous title reviewed on the site. Using humor, an interesting and fast-paced sci-fi plot, and two points of view (Jennifer and Jake), the author ingeniously conveys powerful truths applied to thorny middle school problems, all in a winsome way. I like this book for both boys and girls.
Age Range: 8 and up
Genre: Sci-fi, Humor
B&H Bublishing Group 2013
Series: Book one of two “A Truth Seeker Novel”
Available: Amazon, Christianbook.com Also ask for this title at your local library
