A Current You Don’t Want to Miss – Half-Life Sparks with Heart and Science

Lawrey Goodrick’s word craft is electrifying. I was hooked on the first page.

The engaging illustrations complement the entertaining storyline, a must-read for anyone, especially S.T.E.M. fans!

Half-Life is a witty, lyrical journey across the circuit boards of life with scientific history as a bonus. I recommend you jump on – you don’t want to miss this current.  

Going to the ends of the earth for someone you care deeply for, could mean your demise. Ambitious, Half is a selfless example of a battery on a mission to prove his kin are more deserving than the kitchen bin. In a throwaway society, what effect do we as humans have on the environment, touching on sustainability, modern scientific discoveries, and questions for our future (renewable energies). Through love, loss, and LeapPad laptops; Half is amped for adventure and navigates the corrosive chaos with his nearest and dearest not far away.

The scientific concepts are relevant and important to understanding technology, innovation, and the development of 21st-century skills. Not only does the historical context highlight infamous inventors and discoverers, but the added element and functional use of various electrical components, old or new, is highly effective and educational in any classroom setting.

A valuable addition to any middle grade collection, this book is perfect for sparking discussions about relationships and self-discovery through the eyes of a discarded AA battery, searching for his meaningful place in the world.

Reminiscent of Renèe Treml’s narrative nonfiction, Lawrey’s new novel Half-Life is energy generating from start to finish, the perfect follow-up from his debut Cans for Change.

After reading Half-Life, I was curious and more knowledgeable, do yourself the same favour.

Jenny Catalano

Children’s Author and Illustrator