This is one of the best-selling children`s science books for good reasons. The story-text of the original series, at once humorous, engaging, and packed with information, is complemented by lively pictures, supplemented by cartoon bubbles containing thoughts and comments, and short "reports" by the students in the book. The teacher, Ms Frizzle, is an amazing Poppin-esque character who challenges her students and leads them on unbelievable fieldtrips on their one-of-a-kind school bus. Her equally fascinating wardrobe changes with the subject and situation. The students, recurring characters who reflect the multicultural nature of the US, sport varying temperaments and interests, with whom children may easily identify.

In INSIDE THE EARTH, the bus, at first, won`t start. But when it does, look out! It turns into a steam shovel; provides the students and Ms Frizzle with a new wardrobe, digging equipment; and transports them to the center of the earth, Jules Verne-style: all for the class rock collection. Along the way we learn about: rocks-- their origins and formation; you know: geology, but with the Frizzle spin.