About Us
Building Molecular Literacy Through Imagination and Play
At Kids’ Chemical Solutions, we believe the best way to learn science is through imagination and play. Our award-winning M.C. Detective Agency comic book and game series transform chemistry into an unforgettable adventure, where kids solve molecular mysteries alongside quirky characters like Poppi and Ray.
Founded by Dr. Colleen Kelley, a retired chemistry professor and creator of the educational movement Molecular Literacy, Kids’ Chemical Solutions makes complex chemistry concepts accessible — from elementary classrooms to lifelong learners. Through graphic novels, interactive games, and maker-space projects, we’re redefining how students see and feel chemistry — not as memorization, but as a language of storytelling, creativity, and connection.
Dr. Kelley’s work has been featured in an Emmy-winning PBS documentary and a TEDx talk, “Molecular Literacy for Ages 8–108.”
Together, we’re building a world where chemistry is as joyful as storytime — and every learner can say, “I get it now!”
About the M.C. Detective Agency Series
Where Molecular Mysteries Meet Comic Book Adventures!
Step into a world where chemistry comes alive through story, laughter, and discovery. The M.C. Detective Agency is a comic book series that turns complex chemistry concepts into thrilling, kid-friendly mysteries. Written by Dr. Colleen Kelley, a chemistry professor turned storyteller, the series invites readers to join Poppi, Ray, and the mysterious M.C. as they solve cases that only science can crack.
Every case blends storytelling and science to build Molecular Literacy — a new way of learning chemistry that helps kids see, feel, and understand the molecular world long before high school chemistry begins. Young detectives learn that atoms, ions, and molecules aren’t just symbols on a page — they’re the building blocks of everything!
What Kids Learn (Without Realizing They’re Learning!)
Molecular Literacy: Students learn the “language of chemistry” — how to recognize, name, and visualize molecules.
- Scientific Thinking: Each mystery encourages curiosity, problem-solving, and evidence-based reasoning.
- Story + STEM: Engaging plots connect chemical principles to history, art, cooking, and adventure.
- Dimensional Literacy: Visual clues and art help readers translate between 2D drawings and 3D molecular structures.
- Confidence in Chemistry: By solving molecular mysteries, kids build early fluency and a sense of scientific identity.
Why It Works
- Companion teacher guides and hands-on activities
- Games and puzzles that reinforce each concept
- Podcast episodes on What If World bringing the stories to life,
- and Maker-space projects that let kids build what they read.
Join The Case
Dive into our Molecular Literacy Packet, and discover how solving mysteries can also solve the mystery of chemistry itself.
This bundle contains lessons learned from 30 years of teaching chemistry.
