Charlie and Kiwi: An Evolutionary Adventure    by Peter Reynolds & New York Hall of Science Order:  USA  Can Atheneum, 2011 (2011) Hardcover     Reviewed by Bob Walch When Charlie decides to do his school report on the kiwi bird, he is in for a big surprise. As he begins his research into this odd looking bird he needs some help and, thanks to a time machine, Charlie is able to enlist the aid of a very distant relative – Charles Darwin. With his famous relative, the boy then ventures even farther back in time to the age of dinosaurs. He graphically learns that 'little changes in each generation can add up to BIG changes' and with Grandpa Darwin's help Charlie comes up with a fascinating report that dazzles his classmates. Among the things this young time traveler also learns is that the kiwi's flightless ways and catlike whiskers might seem very unbirdlike, but they are precisely what has enabled the species to survive over centuries. This informative and entertaining picture book for youngsters four and older is based on an exhibit from the New York Hall of Science that is presently touring the U.S. through 2012. This Darwinian adventure through time is intended to explain the important principle of evolution in an accessible, kid-friendly style. After reading it you'll agree that the book succeeds admirably! Note: Opinions expressed in reviews and articles on this site are those of the author(s) and not necessarily those of BookLoons. Find more Kids books on our Shelves or in our book Reviews