How Oliver Olson Changed the World

Written by Claudia Mills

Illustrated by Heather Maione

Oliver Olson isn't sure that he can change the world at all. In fact, he's not even sure he can change his parents' minds about them doing his homework, projects, and even tying his shoes for him! When he gets the assignment to create a diorama of the solar system, he knows that his parents will go overboard as always. Crystal, one of his classmates, is very upset when she learns that Pluto is no longer considered a planet. She persuades Oliver to work on the diorama with her, but he's not sure his parents will be able to handle not being in control of the project. Once he finally convinces them that it will be okay, he and Crystal devise a plan to speak up for Pluto and include it in their diorama. What will Oliver's parents think about all of this?!

Scientists decided that Pluto should no longer be considered a planet because it is too small. They have discovered other bodies that revolve around the sun and are larger than Pluto but are not considered planets. Crystal and Oliver were very mad about this recent change in science facts. Do you think Pluto should still be considered a planet? Why or why not?