The Voyage of the Beetle: A Journey around the World with Charles Darwin and the Search for the Solution to the Mystery of Mysteries, as Narrated by Rosie, an Articulate Beetle

Anne H. Weaver
George Lawrence , Illustrator

Why are there so many different kinds, or species, of living things on earth, each uniquely fitted to its environment? For Charles Darwin, this question represented the "mystery of mysteries." Darwin first began to formulate an answer during a youthful voyage around the world on the H.M.S. Beagle from 1831 to 1835. Darwin's answer, known as the Theory of Natural Selection, changed the way we think about life on earth.

In a clever twist, this beautifully illustrated and engaging account reveals that Darwin had help from an unlikely source: a beetle named Rosie, who possessed a very un-beetle-like urge to see the world. Rosie the Beetle accompanied Darwin on the now-famous voyage of the Beagle. Her lively, witty narrative describes how she took Darwin under her wing, providing clues and hints that guided his insights. The young reader is challenged to use the clues to solve the mystery before Darwin does.

Anne Weaver and George Lawrence were recently interviewed on "Science Watch" on 1350 AM in Albuquerque. To access a podcast of that program, go to Science Watch podcasts

Visit the authors' website at www.voyageofthebeetle.com/ for excerpts, activities, and more.

Reading level: grade 4 and up

Winner of the 2008 New Mexico Press Women's annual book award.

"Whether or not you 'believe' in evolution, the journey of this perceptive young man will open your eyes to greater depths in the wonders of nature--and maybe make you think twice before squashing a beetle."--Territorial Tattler

"[The Voyage of the Beetle] is playful, creative, and beautifully conceived and executed..."--Science Books & Films

"[The Voyage of the Beetle] is such an attractive book that it is sure to catch the attention of youngsters."--Reports of the National Center for Science Education