This four volume non-fiction series was written to teach youngsters the "fundamental principles of the sciences". Each of the four books concentrates on a different area of science. The lessons are personalized somewhat as Abbott has Lawrence and John observing the various tenets of science.

Harper and Brothers was the only publisher of this series.

The first editions of books #1-2 have 1871 at the base of the title page.

The first edition of book #3 has a copyright of 1871 but a title page date of 1872.

The first edition of book #4 Force has the 1873 date at the base of the title page. It was released by Harper and Brothers in December of 1872.

Later editions have undated title pages.

This cover is unchanged for all 1870's editions (first and later) although the later covers are more blue-greenish.

In January,1899 Edward Abbott and Lyman Abbott renewed the copyright on Volume 1-Heat. They renewed the copyright of Light in February, 1899 to Laura A. Buck, the daughter of John S. C. Abbott, renewed the copyright of Light in 1899.

Harper and Brothers reprinted the set in 1899. Except for covers which are a darker shade of green the books are identical with the earlier editions.

1871 First edition title pages Books #1-2		1872 First Edition title page Book #3 Copyright 1871-Title page 1872	First Edition title page Book #4 Copyright 1872-Title page 1873

1899 Edition

1874 Publishers' Weekly advertisement