The Quantum July    by Ron King Order:  USA  Can Delacorte, 2007 (2007) Hardcover, e-Book Read an Excerpt    Reviewed by Ricki Marking-Camuto In The Quantum July, Ron King combines quantum physics with a story of a boy trying to find his place in the world. Unfortunately, the two do not always mesh in a way that is understandable and interesting to readers. Danny Parsons wishes he could be anyone other than who he is. He spends his days daydreaming about being the second son of a monarch or an adventurer or a business tycoon – anyone but a grocery store clerk. Danny may not think he is special, but his genius little sister Bridget believes that he can make things that he touches come true. After he accidently brings to life an equation that blows up their mom's science lab, Bridget gives him other quantum equations to carry around. These equations bring about the father that Danny always wanted, but also drive his family apart. Now Danny must do something he has never done before in his life – choose. He can either choose the father he wants or the little sister he needs. The Quantum July is science fiction that is heavily based in science. King tries to make quantum theory accessible to younger young adults, but as he attempts to explain too much, some theories get muddled and buried. As these theories are integral to the storyline, this can lead to confusing plot points. However, if readers can get through the science, the main story of a boy trying to find his place - both in the world and in his family - is a good, solid tale that will ring true with many young teenagers. Though the premise of The Quantum July is good, I think Ron King tried too hard for his first attempt, just as Danny tries too hard to hit the cans at the end. In striving to make advanced science theories interesting and accessible to younger readers, King sacrificed some of his otherwise heartwarming story. Note: Opinions expressed in reviews and articles on this site are those of the author(s) and not necessarily those of BookLoons. Find more Teens books on our Shelves or in our book Reviews