Veteran Victoria writer Diane Swanson, author of more than 35 books for children, begins her latest with the claim that all kinds of “bad science” is foisted on us by advertisers, the media, and people trying to make a buck. As a way of defending young readers against this onslaught of pseudo-science, Swanson proposes to show what characterizes “good science,” and how readers can tell when they’re being duped.

She succeeds admirably with concise, easy-to-read explanations of the scientific method, data analysis, accurate graphing, science reporting in the media, and many other trappings of the scientific and pseudo-scientific world. The main text is complemented by illustrated sidebars and margin notes that provide examples of both good science (Michael Faraday, whose painstaking attempts to define electromagnetism took years to perfect) and questionable experiments (such as a Norwegian study involving feeding leeches a diet of sour cream, ale, and garlic) that seem to prove little. Numerous quotes from well-known scientists and writers sprinkled throughout are particularly good at emphasizing key concepts.

The book’s overall tone encourages vigilance when dealing with scientific-sounding claims in daily life. In analyzing reports about paranormal events and claims about the health benefits of various products, Swanson provides tips to help readers.

The only drawback to her efforts is that given the imposing mass of information young readers face, many of them might begin to think the entire scientific community is out to dupe them. Still, Swanson gives credit to good science where it’s due, through real-life examples of people who practise it properly.