Tom the Atom is an educational children’s science book series created by Dr. MUM (Dr. Mirna Urquidi-Macdonald). It simplifies complex chemistry and physics concepts—like atoms, molecules, and the periodic table—into fun, illustrated stories for young readers.

Dr. MUM is a Professor Emeritus of Engineering at Penn State University. She wrote the series to foster early scientific curiosity, keen observation skills, and a lifelong love of STEM in children through engaging storytelling.

The series aligns with Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS) for elementary and middle school learning, making it ideal for young readers, parents homeschooling, and teachers in traditional classrooms.

Each book introduces atoms as characters with unique personalities and features. By visualizing chemical elements, covalent bonds, and subatomic behavior, children absorb foundational science effortlessly.

Yes. Every book in the series specifies clear learning objectives and maps directly to NGSS and state science curriculum frameworks (such as NGSSS).