Meet Maggie and Tommy!

Maggie is a curious and determined 7-year-old who loves uncovering life’s little mysteries. Her 4-year-old brother Tommy is never far behind, especially with his trusty blue blanky in tow!

Maggie with her magnifying glass and Tommy with his blue blanky
Cover of Maggie Harper Discovers Dominant and Recessive Genes

Book 1: Dominant and Recessive Genes

One day, Maggie spots something surprising in her garden: a brand-new rosebud with a white flower, even though both of its parents are pink. How can that be?

With Tommy at her side and their brilliant Uncle Atlas ready to help, Maggie embarks on an exciting journey to discover the science of dominant and recessive genes. Together, they learn how traits are passed down, whether it’s the color of a rose or the color of your hair.

This charming and educational story makes big science ideas easy and fun, inspiring kids to explore the world around them with curiosity, wonder, and a touch of adventure.

Ages 5–10 STEM • Genetics Classroom-friendly

What Kids Will Learn

  • Chromosomes & DNA:
    How instructions are stored in our cells.
  • Science Vocabulary:
    Terms kids will see again in middle school biology.
  • Genes & alleles:
    Simple, friendly definitions.
  • Dominant vs. Recessive:
    How certain alleles can mask others.

What Teachers & Reviewers Are Saying

“The perfect combination of fun and informative! Maggie and Tommy's curiosity and humor made me excited to turn each page.”
— Carrie Abel Shaffer, High School English Teacher
“This sweet and beautifully illustrated book does a lovely job of providing a clear and charming lesson on how traits are passed from one generation to the next. I wish I had a book like this to read to my own children when they were little!”
— Tory Johnson, High School Biology Teacher
“Beautifully weaves science and storytelling to create a wonderful way for children to learn and discuss their own genetic makeup.”
— Susana Herrera, High School Writing Teacher

Kids Say…

“I learned why my hair is brown and my brother’s is blonde!”
— Nora, age 7
“The fart gene page is the best page.”
— Caleb, age 6
“I want to be a scientist like Uncle Atlas.”
— Maya, age 8

About the Author

Haley Volkert is a storyteller and budding biologist who believes science is at its best when it’s shared with a sense of wonder. A lifelong explorer of the natural world, she’s happiest when asking big questions about how living things work... and helping others discover the answers for themselves.

When she’s not writing or studying biology, you might find her volunteering in her community, practicing music, or collecting curious facts about the world around her.

The Maggie Harper series is her way of inspiring the next generation of curious minds, one gene at a time.