This illustrated biography series combines non-fiction and fiction to introduce readers to famous historical characters. Each book begins with a diary, told from the point of view of a child who works for the famous person. At the end of each book there is an illustrated reference chapter.At ten years old, James becomes an assistant to Charles Darwin on the Beagle's second voyage, helping him collect and contain creatures that fly, scuttle, leap and hide from the naturalist. James' diary tells of an exciting moment in 19th-century history; it's a young boy's insight into the actions and thoughts of one of the world's most famous and controversial scientists.