ALEX TAYLOR AND THE ATLANTIS CODE: Science Fiction Children’s Book. Time Travel to Ancient Civilizations. Mystery Adventure for Kids 9–12. Gift for Teen Boys and Girls Ages 13–16.

by Ravi Yaranian

Adventure Story for Kids 9-12 and Teens. Time travel, Ancient Civilizations, and STEM-Based Mysteries. Great for Teachers, Classrooms, and Family Reading.

Bonus Material Inside.

Looking For a Cool, PAGE-TURNING chapter book for boys and girls ages 9-16?
Alex Taylor and the Atlantis Code is a thrilling mix of  historical FICTION, SCIENCE, and MYTHOLOGY- perfect for fans of I Survived,  Explorer Academy, Secret Coders, and Classic Children's Novels.

In this fast paced middle grade paperback edition, a young explorer discovers a glowing glyphs in the Grand Canyon. What follows is a race through time, ancient ruins, and lost civilizations to solve an impossible puzzle that could save the world.

Alongside a brave AI robot named Zeta and his animal companion Koda, Alex must decode secrets, outsmarts enemies, and uncover the truth behind Atlantis.

Perfect for fans of :
- Science fiction, STEM adventure, and educational stories for school.
- Books for kids 9 - 12, tweens, and early teen readers.
- Reluctant readers and 5th-8th grade reading levels.
- National Geographic Kids, Choose Your Own Adventure, and fun fact books.
- Books similar to Percy Jackson, The Secret Explorers, or Wonder.
- Judy Blume- style emotional growth with fantasy world- building
 
Bonus Material Inside :
1. Printable Explorer Certificate
2. 10 Explorer Challenges
3. Coloring Book
4. Artifact Cards & Facts
5. Match the Symbols Worksheet
6. Create Your Own Secret Symbols
7. Welcome Letter from Alex

Each bonus is accessible via QR Code - perfect for classroom activities, independent reading, or home enrichment.

Whether you're a parent shopping for a birthday gift, a teacher looking for book club picks, or building a summer reading list, this youth fiction novel blends action, mystery, and imagination in a way that's perfect for school, family reading, and beyond.
 
Ideal
- Boys and girls ages 8-13
- 2nd to 8th grade readers
- Fans of survival books, campfire stories, and myth-based fiction.
- Collectors of hardcover editions , classroom sets, or student award books.
- Christian-friendly titles, Brave Books readers, and values-based storytelling.

Start the adventure today- and help Alex Taylor unlock a secret that could change the world.

299 pages, Paperback

Published July 9, 2025

About the author

Ravi Yaranian writes emotional and healing fiction that blends storytelling with truths about sacrifice, resilience, and the cost of caring for others. His upcoming novel, The Cost of Healing, is the first book in The Healers’ Testament.

Inspired by his own struggles, Ravi’s writing is deeply personal. “When I first began writing The Cost of Healing, I thought I was telling a story about sacrifice. But somewhere along the way, I realized this wasn’t just fiction—it was a mirror of my own life, of the weight I carried, and the silence I learned to live in.”

His hope is that every reader finds a piece of themselves in Elera’s journey—and remembers that compassion is not weakness, but power.

Reviews

[Ravi Yaranian · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thrilled to share my debut adventure! This is for every curious, brave, STEM-loving young explorer. If you're into time travel, ancient civilizations, and mysteries — this one's for you.
– Ravi Yaranian

[Homesick Martian · Rating 3 out of 5]

I see what the author is going for. I looked him up on GR and see that he's also a fan of Percy Jackson. (I love Rick Riordan's books and would also love to write such amazing stories.) I am a big fan of the genre and read a lot of YA adventure books. The book starts *immediately* in the action, which is cool and reminiscent of an Indiana Jones movie I can't remember the name of. What I didn't enjoy was the fact that I had no idea who these characters were, *what* they were, what they were doing, and why I should care?

Come to think of it, don't most Indiana Jones movies start that way? Like it's part of the schtick. What sticky situation is Indy going to find himself in? If you grew up in the 80s, it was what everyone looked forward to when a new adventure would come out. This book starts in much the same way. What it doesn't have that the movies do is clues about the characters. Watching the film, we see that this is a man who looks like an adventurer or an archeologist, and he's in some sort of ruins, maybe in a Middle Eastern country? We can see what he looks like, what the setting looks like, what any villains or environmental danger looks like, and what his friends look like. I realize this is true of any movie, but I usually experience more world-building in books vs. movies. The danger is obvious and heart-pounding. If you've never seen one of these movies before, you don't have the back story, but that's okay because there are enough context clues to keep your interest.

This book felt like it *tried* to start with an Indiana Jones sequence, but it fell flat. Without the benefit of seeing the characters or having any foreknowledge of them, I just had no idea what was going on. Even by the end of the second chapter, I still had no idea what was going on. I put the book down and googled, hoping this was part of a series because "I'm obviously missing something". I struggled with it really hard and I hated that I was struggling because I had high hopes for another YA adventure-type series.

Now I know you're probably thinking- is she just a bad reader? No, I quite easily imagine things from my books and generally read in upwards of 250 a year and have for most of my life. If you know about the apple scale, I can see the shiny red apple. I can turn it and look at all parts of it.

This needs some world-building, some knowledge of the characters, and some description. It was like being placed in a black bag and tossed into a bad situation, without knowing anyone involved. I ranted about it for 20 minutes. Asking myself, "Am I the problem? Am I the drama?" My wife read it and declared that I was, in fact, not the drama as she came to the same conclusions.

There's a story here. It needs to be told differently. We need to meet the characters, or at least "see" them, before some sort of action sequence. I received this book as part of a giveaway and appreciate being given a copy! I'm sorry I didn't like it more. I would be willing to read a revised copy if that ever exists. Thanks for the opportunity!

[Rose Brownley · Rating 5 out of 5]

What an absolute gem of a middle grade adventure! Alex Taylor and the Atlantis Code is the kind of book that grabs you from page one and doesn’t let go until the final chapter. It blends history, science, and mythology so seamlessly that it feels like both a thrilling story and a learning experience.
The story follows Alex Taylor, a curious young explorer who stumbles across glowing glyphs in the Grand Canyon. From there, it’s a whirlwind race through ancient ruins, time bending puzzles, and lost civilizations. Along the way, Alex is joined by Zeta, a loyal AI robot, and Koda, an animal companion who brings both heart and bravery to the journey. Their teamwork and clever problem-solving made me smile throughout.
What I loved most is how this book feels like a modern mix of Percy Jackson, Explorer Academy, and I Survived there’s nonstop action, but also real-world facts and mythological connections that make you think. Kids who are into STEM, puzzles, or mysteries will be hooked. The themes of courage, friendship, and curiosity shine through, making it a fantastic choice for school reading lists, book clubs, or family read alouds.
The bonus materials are a brilliant touch! From the printable Explorer Certificate to the coloring pages, artifact cards, and even a “Create Your Own Secret Symbols” activity, this book goes beyond storytelling and becomes an interactive adventure. I can see teachers using this in classrooms and parents encouraging reluctant readers with the extra hands-on fun.
Perfect for ages 9–16, but honestly, I think any curious mind would enjoy it. If you love books that mix imagination with history and science, and characters who embody bravery and creativity, this one is a must-read.
I can already see Alex Taylor and the Atlantis Code becoming a series kids will collect and treasure. Can’t wait for the next adventure!

[Amanda Taylor · Rating 5 out of 5]

When I picked up Alex Taylor and the Atlantis Code for my son, I honestly thought it might be another “adventure book” that would sit half-read on the nightstand. To my surprise, we ended up reading it together every night, and it quickly became something we both looked forward to.
From the very first chapter, with Alex stumbling upon glowing glyphs in the Grand Canyon, we were hooked. My son’s eyes actually lit up he whispered, “That would be the coolest thing ever if it happened to me.” That’s when I realized this wasn’t just a story; it was an experience for him.
What makes it special is the pacing. The chapters end on little cliffhangers, which made it nearly impossible to stop. “One more chapter, please!” became a nightly refrain. And then there’s the cast: Alex is smart and brave but still feels like a real kid; Zeta, the AI robot, has these funny little quirks that made us laugh out loud; and Koda, the animal companion, brought warmth and courage. My son even said, “I want a Koda.”
The mix of mythology, history, and science gave us things to talk about, too. We paused to look up Atlantis myths and even chatted about AI because of Zeta. Few books spark that kind of curiosity while keeping the excitement high.
And then the bonus activities. My son proudly filled out the Explorer Certificate and taped it to his wall. We tried out the Explorer Challenges together and even attempted to create our own symbols. It extended the book beyond the pages and made him feel like part of the adventure.
This is exactly the kind of story I wish had existed when I was younger: fast-paced, imaginative, and layered with real-world connections. If you have kids between 9 and 13, especially reluctant readers, give this book a chance. It doesn’t just entertain; it inspires.

[Regina Bergen · Rating 5 out of 5]

As a middle school teacher, I spend a lot of time hunting for books that will grab my students especially those who insist they “don’t like reading.” Alex Taylor and the Atlantis Code might just be one of those rare books that manages to bridge the gap.
From a professional standpoint, it ticks so many boxes: it blends STEM concepts, mythology, and history into a story that feels both fun and educational. But what really impressed me wasn’t the content itself, but the emotional connection it created. Alex isn’t a perfect hero; he makes mistakes, doubts himself, and struggles and that’s what makes him so relatable to students. They see themselves in him.
I also loved Zeta, the AI robot. He brings in humor and cleverness that kept me smiling, and I know students will latch onto him as a favorite character. Koda adds another layer of heart. Together, the trio embodies themes of loyalty, teamwork, and curiosity.
When I tested a few chapters aloud with my reading group, the kids were leaning forward, interrupting me with questions about Atlantis, glyphs, and AI. That’s when I knew the book was doing exactly what it should: sparking wonder.
And I have to mention the extras. The QR-coded Explorer Challenges, the certificates, the activities these are gold for classroom use. They allow the story to spill into interactive projects, which makes this a teacher’s dream.
This isn’t just another middle grade adventure; it’s a book that pulls kids into the story and then nudges them to keep exploring long after the last page.

[Rees Melzer · Rating 5 out of 5]

Every once in a while, you find a book that makes you feel like a kid again. For me, Alex Taylor and the Atlantis Code did exactly that.
When Alex discovers the glowing symbols in the Grand Canyon, I felt that little spark of wonder I hadn’t felt since reading The Secret of the Old Clock or Choose Your Own Adventure books as a child. The writing immediately put me in the mindset of an explorer I could almost see the glyphs glowing on the canyon walls.
As the story unfolded, I found myself not just reading but imagining. I was solving puzzles alongside Alex, laughing at Zeta’s quirky remarks, and rooting for Koda in moments of danger. There were points where I caught myself holding my breath, even though I knew this was written for younger readers. That’s how immersive it was.
What stayed with me most was the blending of worlds: the myth of Atlantis felt real, the science felt grounded, and the historical threads gave everything weight. It’s a story that respects its readers, treating them as capable thinkers while still keeping the adventure front and center.
The bonus content added to the magic. I don’t usually try activity extras in books, but this time I did. I actually printed the “Create Your Own Secret Symbols” worksheet and yes, I spent an hour designing my own code. That’s the kind of pull this book has.
This is the type of middle grade novel that can ignite a lifelong love of reading and learning. It certainly rekindled mine.

[Dave Micheal · Rating 5 out of 5]

As a homeschooling parent, I’m constantly searching for books that can pull double duty: engaging stories that also provide educational enrichment. Alex Taylor and the Atlantis Code hit that sweet spot perfectly.
Reading it with my kids, I watched their faces light up with curiosity. When Alex finds the glyphs, they immediately started asking questions about the Grand Canyon and wanted to Google what real glyphs looked like. Later, as the story moved into myths of Atlantis, they begged for a mini-lesson on Plato and ancient civilizations. A book that inspires kids to research on their own? That’s a treasure.
What I appreciate most is how the story is layered. On the surface, it’s an action-packed adventure with codes, chases, and a world-saving mission. But underneath, it’s full of lessons about courage, teamwork, problem solving, and perseverance. It models intellectual curiosity in a way that kids can absorb without feeling “taught at.”
The extras make it even better for homeschool. The Explorer Challenges became a mini-unit in our curriculum. We used the Artifact Cards as a springboard for creative writing. The Explorer Certificate gave my kids a tangible sense of accomplishment.
This book isn’t just something we read and shelved it turned into an experience we lived together. For parents who want stories that enrich as much as they entertain, this one is an absolute win.

[Morag Hodge · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have to share this because it honestly shocked me. My 11-year-old son is the definition of a reluctant reader. We’ve tried everything graphic novels, sports books, even audiobooks but nothing really stuck. Then I handed him Alex Taylor and the Atlantis Code, not expecting much.
Two days later, he came to me and said, “Mom, I think I actually like this book.” That moment almost brought tears to my eyes.
He told me the reason was simple: “It feels like I’m inside the adventure.” He loved the part where Alex finds the glowing glyphs in the Grand Canyon, and he said it made him imagine being there himself, brushing away dust and discovering something secret. He laughed at Zeta’s funny robot logic and loved Koda, saying, “Every explorer needs a loyal animal friend.”
But the biggest win? The interactive activities. He filled out the Explorer Certificate, then spent half an afternoon making his own secret symbols. For once, reading didn’t feel like homework it felt like play.
As a parent, I couldn’t ask for more. This book didn’t just tell a story; it opened a door for my child into a world of reading. For that, I will recommend it to every parent of a reluctant reader.

[Adams Sales · Rating 5 out of 5]

Alex Taylor and the Atlantis Code is a fantastic read that blends adventure, history, science, and mythology in a way that grabs kids’ attention from the very first page. My child devoured this book in just a couple of days and couldn’t stop talking about the glowing glyphs, the puzzles, and the race through ancient civilizations. The characters are fun and relatable—Alex is a brave young explorer, Zeta the AI robot adds humor and brains, and Koda the animal companion brings warmth to the story. What really impressed me was how the book sparks curiosity about STEM and history while still being a true page-turner. The included bonus activities (Explorer Certificate, coloring pages, and challenges) make it even more engaging for classrooms or family reading. Perfect for fans of Percy Jackson and Explorer Academy. Highly recommended for ages 9–13 and anyone who loves a thrilling, educational adventure!

[Mercy Steve · Rating 5 out of 5]

As a teacher, I’m always on the lookout for page turning books that sneak in learning, and Alex Taylor and the Atlantis Code delivers! This story has mythology, history, and science all wrapped up in an exciting adventure. Alex is such a relatable character curious, brave, and just the right amount of vulnerable. His companions, Zeta the AI robot and Koda the animal friend, add humor and loyalty to the story.
The mix of ancient ruins, secret codes, and a race to solve the mystery of Atlantis kept me hooked. And the bonus materials (Explorer Certificate, puzzles, coloring pages, artifact cards) make it perfect for classroom activities or summer enrichment.
This is the kind of book that makes reluctant readers fall in love with reading. Absolutely recommend for ages 9–14!

[Luis Sullivan · Rating 5 out of 5]

Alex Taylor and the Atlantis Code is a thrilling, imaginative ride that combines the wonder of discovery with the fun of solving puzzles. The moment Alex finds glowing glyphs in the Grand Canyon, you know you’re in for an adventure.
The book has a great balance of mythology, science, and action, reminding me a bit of Rick Riordan meets Choose Your Own Adventure. I especially enjoyed the way the author wove in real historical ideas with the Atlantis legend it makes the story feel both exciting and educational.
The interactive bonuses push it to another level. I can easily see young readers feeling like they are explorers alongside Alex.
Highly recommended for tweens, classrooms, and anyone who enjoys myth-based fiction with a STEM twist.

[Rahman Diego · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow! This book has everything I loved as a kid treasure hunts, ancient secrets, and a race against time. Alex Taylor is a character young readers can root for, and with Zeta the AI robot and Koda by his side, it feels like a modern classic.
I loved the way the author mixed STEM learning with mythology. It reminded me of books I grew up with, like Encyclopedia Brown and Choose Your Own Adventure, but with a fresh, fast-paced style for today’s readers.
The bonuses (certificates, coloring pages, and secret symbol activities) really make it stand out. I wish more children’s books had this kind of interactive content!
A great mix of education and imagination. Definitely a keeper

[Rose Brooks · Rating 5 out of 5]

My son is 11 and doesn’t always finish books, but he devoured this one. The pace is fast, the chapters are short, and there’s always something happening whether it’s glowing symbols in the Grand Canyon or decoding puzzles to uncover Atlantis.
The characters are great Alex is smart but not perfect, Zeta is hilarious in his robot logic, and Koda is the kind of companion every kid wishes they had. The little extras at the end with QR codes were a hit in our house.
If your kids like Percy Jackson, Explorer Academy, or National Geographic Kids, this book is right up their alley.

[Luna Ray · Rating 5 out of 5]

My 11-year-old son devoured this book in two days! He’s usually a reluctant reader, but something about the mix of history, science, and adventure really grabbed him. The Grand Canyon setting, the mysterious glowing glyphs, and the race to uncover Atlantis made it impossible for him to put down. I also appreciated the bonus materials he loved the “Explorer Challenges” and even hung his Explorer Certificate on his wall. A fantastic blend of fun and learning. Highly recommend for boys and girls ages 9–13.

[Robert · Rating 5 out of 5]

Alex Taylor and the Atlantis Code is the kind of middle grade adventure I wish I had growing up. The pacing is quick, the mystery is engaging, and the educational elements are seamlessly woven into the story. The combination of ancient civilizations, futuristic AI, and cryptic symbols creates an irresistible puzzle for curious young minds.
Zeta the robot is a standout character equal parts comic relief and emotional heart and the bonus materials (like the Explorer Certificate and interactive activities) are brilliant additions. My students begged to read “just one more chapter” every day.

[Elowen Robert · Rating 5 out of 5]

My 11-year-old, who usually struggles to finish books, devoured Alex Taylor and the Atlantis Code in just a few days. It's got everything: danger, puzzles, time travel, ancient artifacts, and a dash of mythology. The chapters are short, the action constant, and the characters easy to connect with.
What really impressed me was how much STEM and historical content was woven into the story without feeling like “school.” Plus, the bonus QR code activities were a hit especially the artifact cards and secret symbols worksheet!

[Kate · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book surprised me in the best way! While it's a page turning quest with ancient secrets and cool tech, Alex Taylor and the Atlantis Code also manages to touch on themes of bravery, curiosity, friendship, and growing up. There are moments of emotional depth that reminded me of Judy Blume books but set in a world of lost cities and glowing glyphs.
The Christian-friendly, values-based storytelling is subtle and thoughtful never preachy and makes this a great fit for families looking for clean, exciting fiction with heart. The illustrations and downloadable extras were the cherry on top.

[Rodrigo · Rating 5 out of 5]

Travel, history and puzzles

I enjoyed this adventure. The mix of time travel, history, and puzzles was exciting to read and I kept going. The jumps to the Grand Canyon, China, Egypt, etc feel vivid and keeps you curious. A few clues are a bit obvious and some scenes move fast, but the story is super clear, with a nice message about courage. I also liked the bonus activities at the end. Definitely a solid pick for kids and teens in classrooms or families.

[Marah · Rating 5 out of 5]

Alex Taylor and the Atlantis Code reads like Indiana Jones meets Percy Jackson for kids. It’s got everything lost civilizations, secret symbols, clever puzzles, and a ton of action. While definitely aimed at younger readers (9–13), I found myself turning pages quickly just to see how Alex, Zeta, and Koda would get out of each situation. Fun, imaginative, and educational without ever feeling “school like.

[Kaiden Blackwood · Rating 5 out of 5]

Alex Taylor and the Atlantis Code is the perfect blend of fun and learning. The story moves fast, full of action, time travel, and ancient mysteries. I loved how the author wove science and history into the plot without making it feel like a lesson. Alex, Zeta, and Koda make such a great team, and the clues and puzzles kept us guessing until the end. If your kids love books that spark curiosity, this is a fantastic pick!

[Amelia Reign · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is a treasure for any child who loves to explore and learn. The story takes readers on a thrilling journey through time and ancient civilizations, with plenty of challenges for Alex to solve. The AI companion Zeta is such a fun addition, and the science and mythology mix makes it stand out from other adventure stories. A great choice for ages 9–12, and even fun for parents reading along!

[Cheryl Steve · Rating 5 out of 5]

From the moment Alex discovers the glowing glyphs in the Grand Canyon, the story takes off and doesn’t slow down. The writing is exciting and engaging, with vivid descriptions that make you feel like you’re right there on the adventure. The mix of historical fiction and futuristic science was incredible. This book reminded me of classic adventure novels but with a modern twist. Kids who love mysteries will absolutely love this one!

[Evelyn · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book surprised me. I usually get bored with long stories, but this one was different. The short chapters, puzzles, and action made me want to keep reading. Alex’s adventures through lost civilizations and the mystery of Atlantis were awesome.
Also, I really liked the Explorer Challenges at the end they made me feel part of the story.
If you don’t read much but like adventure games or history, this book is worth checking out.

[Mario James · Rating 5 out of 5]

Alex Taylor and the Atlantis Code really stands out in middle grade adventure fiction. The story balances educational content (history, science, mythology) with fast-paced action. Alex is a smart but relatable hero, and the idea of Atlantis being tied to real-world puzzles in the Grand Canyon was a clever twist.
The supporting cast Zeta and Kod give the book both humor and heart. And those QR-coded bonuses are genius for making reading more interactive. Highly recommend for grades 4–8!

[Simon Calloway · Rating 5 out of 5]

Alex Taylor and the Atlantis Code is a thrilling mix of adventure, history, and STEM that kept my 11-year-old hooked from start to finish. Alex, Zeta the AI robot, and Koda make a fun team, and the puzzles and time travel kept us guessing. The bonus activities are a great touch—perfect for classrooms or family reading. If your kids love Percy Jackson or Explorer Academy, this is a must-read. Exciting, educational, and hard to put down!

[Talia Adams]

Alex Taylor and the Atlantis Code is a fast-paced mix of science, mythology, and adventure. My kids loved the glowing glyphs, time travel, and clever puzzles, while the characters felt fun and relatable. The bonus activities are a great touch for classrooms or at-home learning. Perfect for fans of Percy Jackson and Explorer Academy, this book makes reading exciting while sneaking in history and STEM. Highly recommended!

[Ruby · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a page-turner! Alex Taylor and the Atlantis Code pulled my 11-year-old in right away with its thrilling blend of ancient civilizations, STEM challenges, and nonstop action. Alex, Zeta, and Koda make a fantastic team, and the puzzles kept us guessing. I also loved the included bonus activities—they make the book extra fun for teachers and families. A smart, exciting story that sparks curiosity and makes kids want to learn more.

[Luna Adam · Rating 5 out of 5]

An absolute hit in our house! This book has everything adventure, mystery, history, and even science woven in. My child raced through the chapters and begged for more. The time-travel twist and Atlantis connection make it truly unique. The Explorer Certificate and activities are a bonus that make it great for group reading. If your child enjoys I Survived or Explorer Academy, this is the perfect next read. Engaging, educational, and so much fun!

[Tyler Smith · Rating 5 out of 5]

Alex Taylor and the Atlantis Code is the kind of book kids race through and then beg to read again. The adventure blends time travel, ancient history, and clever puzzles in a way that sparks imagination and curiosity. Alex, Zeta, and Koda are such a fun team to follow! I especially loved how the story sneaks in STEM and mythology without ever slowing down the action. A must-have for parents, teachers, and any young reader who loves exciting mysteries!

[Jane Brown · Rating 4 out of 5]

As a middle school teacher, I’m always searching for engaging books that combine STEM concepts with adventure, and Alex Taylor and the Atlantis Code is exactly that. My students loved the puzzle solving and the inclusion of real-world history and mythology. The interactive QR code materials (coloring pages, challenges, artifact cards) make it a wonderful classroom resource. It reminds me of Explorer Academy and I Survived, but with its own unique twist. Perfect for 5th–7th grade reading groups!