The Race Across Anaconda Swamp: A Challenge Island STEAM Adventure

One of Children Book Council's Hot off the Press picks for May 2022!

"For early grade readers who revel in science-based fiction, this is a winning read. Animals, physics, and habitats are among the topics covered, with lots of instances where the reader can predict and hypothesize along with the characters. Kimani, who is Black, has an impressive head for science and builds in many of the facts that help the group solve problems together. Sleek black and white cartoon art complements the text, adding visual clues. Science experiments and craft projects from each character are at the end."
—Youth Services Book Review

"In this follow-up to The Bridge to Sharktooth Island, optimistic Joy, cautious Daniel, and studious Kimani find themselves transported once again to a magical island where they have to solve a series of puzzles to escape the middle of the rainforest before darkness falls. . . Supplementary materials at the back include STEAM projects and fun facts introduced by the main characters that a science-loving child will enjoy. The story is engaging, educational, and peppered with cute illustrations… a fun purchase for the easygoing young reader in love with animals and books."
—School Library Journal

"The Race Across Anaconda Swamp, the second Challenge Island title, in which three kids use teamwork and STEAM skills to navigate a perilous island adventure, [is forthcoming from West Margin Press.]"
—Publishers Weekly, Spring 2022 Children’s Sneak Previews

Daniel, Joy, and Kimani are transported once again to a magical island—this time into a tropical rainforest! As they zip through the canopy, a dangerous snake lurks in the black waters below. They are searching for a way out and a path to a mysterious tower. Does it hold the answers to their questions?

Using ropes and other found items, the three friends must figure out how to safely traverse across the island using their knowledge of friction and weights. But the sun is going down and night is approaching fast. Will they reach the tower in time?

Also included are cool facts about the rainforest and its animals, plus fun STEAM activities showing you how to build your own pulley system and monkey playground.

From the world's #1 STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, Math) education enrichment program, Challenge Island® presents an exciting new adventure book series for smart, curious kids.