Georges Secret Key to the Universe Ch. 21
“George, you are absolutely right,” Eric said as they waved good-bye to all the scientists, who were leaving now that the  conference had come to an end.
George and Eric went back into the library, which was covered in cake crumbs, half-drunk cups of coffee, old pens, and conference papers folded into airplane shapes. “We need to work on saving this planet and looking for a new one. We don’t have to do one or the other.”
“Do you think you will?” asked George. “You and your friends? Do both, I mean?”
“Oh, I think so, yes,” said Eric. “Maybe we could invite your parents to our next conference? Do you know, George, I heard your father’s talk at the climate-change protest march the other day. Maybe he has some good ideas we could use?”
“Oh no,  don’t do that!” said George,  panicking. He wasn’t at all sure that his father would approve of Eric and his friendly scientists. “I don’t think he’d like that.”
“He might surprise you,” said Eric. “We all need to work together to save the planet if we’re to get anything done.” He started to clear up some of the mess the scientists had made. They seemed to have left behind an extraordinary number of things: jackets, hats, sweaters--even a shoe.
“It was very nice of you to drop by to apologize,” said Eric, gathering together a great armful of abandoned clothing.
“Well, actually,” admitted George, “that’s not quite why I came around.” Eric dumped the clothes in a corner of the room and turned back to look at him. “I signed up for a science competition,” the boy continued nervously. “It’s sort of like your conference, except it’s kids giving the talks. And there’s a big computer as first prize. I’ve tried to write something to say, but I’m really worried I’ve made lots of mistakes and everyone will laugh at me.”
“Yes, Annie told me about your competition,” said Eric, looking serious. “And I’ve got something that might help you. Funnily enough, I had an idea after your comet ride. I decided to start writing a book about the  Universe for you and Annie. I’ve made some notes. They might help you with your science presentation.” He picked up a plate of cookies. “Have one of these. Brain food.”