• Age: 12 to 18
• Grade: 7 to 12

The story of a time when giants roamed the earth.

Finn the half-Great, Theo Caldwell’s first novel for young adults, tells the story of Ireland’s most beloved heroes with humor and heart. Finn McCool, at fourteen feet, thinks he is the tallest thing in the Emerald Isle. That is, until he ventures outside his childhood valley. Finn soon discovers that ancient Britain is a land of giants, dragons, wizards, and men, in which he is only one little fellow.

Despite treating those about him as decently as he can, Finn finds he has enemies all over. Even before he was born, cruel creatures known as the Frost Giants killed Finn’s father and tried to do away with his mother. When Finn learns what befell his parents, his first order of business is to seek out the Frost Giants and take revenge.

In later years, Finn becomes a calmer chap, living in idle bliss on his hill, known as Knockmany, with his beloved wife, Oonagh. But Finn the half-Great’s troubles are not over. Ireland and all of Britain are being overrun by mortal men, who have no patience for bigger fellows like Finn. When Knockmany is attacked by humans, and Oonagh is kidnapped by their leader, Finn sets out to rally Britain’s remaining giants and bring her back.

Steeped in legend, Finn the half-Great is completely thrilling as it introduces an unforgettable character and adventures both ancient and new.

Theo Caldwell's profile page

Theo Caldwell is an internationally known investor, writer, and commentator. Born in Toronto, Theo is a citizen of Ireland, Canada, and the United States. Finn the half-Great is Theo’s first novel and it is dedicated to his beloved dog, Harvey. Learn more about Finn at www.halfgreat.com.

Evolution: How We and All Living Things Came to Be

Daniel Loxton, the editor of Junior Sceptic magazine, introduces the concept of evolution as “an amazing story of life on earth that has taken billions of years to unfold”. He then leads the reader through humans’ understanding of evolution as they discovered animals that no longer exist. The reader is introduced to the young Englishman named Charles Darwin who developed the now famous concepts of natural selection and the survival of the fittest.

Loxton continues to build on Darwin’s ideas by providing the reader with examples of how modern day science has broadened our understanding of evolution. He also explains how some species have adapted overtime to ensure their continued survival. Evolution ends with Loxton addressing questions such as: how do we know that evolution happens?; if evolution really happens where are the transitional fossils?; and finally, how does the theory of evolution relates to religion?.

Evolution: How We and All Living Things Came to Be addresses the theory of evolution in an easy to understand manner. This book features breathtaking illustrations comprised of photographs, drawings and computer generated images. Complex ideas are explained straightforwardly while being sensitive to the reader’s own personal and religious beliefs.

I would recommend this text to anyone wishing to learn more about the theory of evolution as it provides a solid understanding of complex concepts while maintaining the reader’s interest.

Finn the Half-Great

Theo Caldwell’s first novel, based on the legends of one of Ireland’s most famous heroes, is entertaining and inspiring. In a finely crafted tale, Caldwell keeps the reader on the edge of his or her seat as he explores the ancient world of Albion.

Finn the Half-Great grows up believing that he is the tallest and greatest person in the Emerald Isle. That is until Finn meets a real giant and struggles to understand his place in the grand scheme of things. When Finn learns of his father’s brutal murder at the hands of the Frost Giants, he vows revenge and sets out on an adventure of a life time.

Caldwell’s narrative genuinely captures the feelings of adventure, excitement and suspense. The story, though fast paced and plot driven, is full of detail that enriches the experience of the reader. The beautiful cover illustration by Victor Molev reflects the imaginative depiction of the story’s central characters, locations and mysteries.

Finn the Half-Great is a thoughtful story filled with humour and mirth that will enchant the reader from the very first page. I look forward to reading the next installment in this series that promises to keep readers spellbound for years to come.