Tom the Atom is an educational youth’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 all the STANDARDS adopted by the 50 US states.  There are three main standards (please use this word STANDARD instead of CURRICULUM).  20 states adopted Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS);  Florida modified that standard and produced the Next Generation Science Standards and produced the Next Generation Sunshine State Standard (NSGSS);  and 24 States adopted the Framework or DCI-Based Standards (here referred as Framework), Texas, and Puerto Rico has their own standards that are not included in our analysis.

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.

The series aligns with all the STANDARDS adopted by the 50 US states.  There are three main standards (please use this word STANDARD instead of CURRICULUM).  20 states adopted Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS);  Florida modified that standard and produced the Next Generation Science Standards and produced the Next Generation Sunshine State Standard (NSGSS);  and 24 States adopted the Framework or DCI-Based Standards (here referred as Framework), Texas, and Puerto Rico has their own standards that are not included in our analysis.