Reference Books About Space    The infinite size of the universe is perhaps the reason for the infinite number of questions we have about the galaxy we live in and the ones beyond. From encyclopedias to general reference, the following books provide good exploration into the field of space study. Visit our Themed Reviews section for more subject-specific space books! Reviews 1001 Facts About Space Carole Stott and Clint Twist    Ever wanted to learn about the stars? This is the book. Know a kid who's interested in the planets? This is the book. Have a teen who is interested comets and asteroids? This is the book. If you want to know anything about space but don't feel like reading NASA's files, this is the book. While it may look small, about four and half inches square, it is packed with information. Each spread explains a different topic and is filled with illustrations that help to explain the text. It reads not like a scientific textbook but like a comic book with short passages and lots of graphics. The book is accessible to all ages because of the ingenious way the publisher has put it together. It is full of easy-to-understand graphs and interesting photos for upper elementary readers. The main text is easy to understand for middle readers and the captions and mini-text blocks perfect for high school readers. The book is also small enough to be portable, a trait most reference books lack. Interested in space? This is the book. A "DK Backpack Book." 2002, DK Publishing, $8.95. Ages 9 to 16. Reviewer: Heather Robertson ISBN: 0-7894-8450-1 The Atlas of Space Jack Challoner Consultant, James Muirden    This atlas briefly covers all of the usual topics of this popular subject. Space is where we live, not something out there. First we identify our place in this space, or universe, and learn about the other planets and their relationship to the sun. Once we find ourselves, the history of our study of space leads us to the constellations and early man's attempts to see patterns in the sky. Telescopes started out small and relatively simple, evolving into the Hubble Space Telescope, which has been a great asset to astronomers. A striking photograph of the Eagle Nebula, included in the book, was taken by the Hubble Space Telescope. The scale of these images tests our conceptual skills. No discussion of space is complete without a look at current space travel and the predictions for what the future will bring. A useful and informative book. 2001, Copper Beech Books, $28.90 and $12.95. Ages 6 to 12. Reviewer: Kristin Harris ISBN: 0-7613-2157-8 ISBN: 0-7613-2275-2 Best Books: Best Books for Junior High and Young Adults, 2002 ; Science Books & Films; United States The Best Children's Books of the Year, 2002 ; Bank Street College of Education; United States Atlas of Space Exploration Tim Furniss    Kids interested in space exploration will love this. The richly-illustrated large format has pages with information on space study history, the solar system planet by planet, stars and beyond, telescopes, space stations, and much more. There are plenty of tables and an index. Curious children will spend a lot of time with this. A good addition to the educational reference portion of the family library. 2000, Gareth Stevens Publishing, $21.95. Ages 10 to 12. Reviewer: G. Henebry ISBN: 0-8368-2506-3 Atlas of Space Exploration Tim Furniss    Three major sections--Voyages into the Unknown, Discovering New Worlds, and To the Stars and Beyond--provide the framework for this oversized reference. A very brief introduction to early stargazers leads into the current high tech exploration of space (rocketry, satellites, space pioneers and space stations). In Discovering New Worlds the focus is the solar system and the search for life and an understanding of our neighboring planets. Starting with the Sun, the text moves from the inner to the outer planets and some of the moons. For those where exploration has been more extensive, there may be four to six pages of information, photographs and other illustrations. Deep space probes such as Pioneer and Voyager and the astounding statement that it will take 350,000 years at a speed of 6 miles per second for Voyager 2 to reach Sirius, one of our nearest stars will intrigue kids. From here readers move to the section entitled To the Stars and Beyond which opens with a discussion of the Hubble--a telescope that can look further into the universe than any other instrument except an X-ray satellite. The pictures from deep space are amazing and it is hard to relate to the sheer magnitude. The book concludes with tables that recap milestones in astronomy, firsts in satellite technology, a moonwalk log, a glossary, list of additional resources (no publication dates given), videos, web sites and an index. A useful book for report writers and a beautiful book for browsing. 1999, Gareth Stevens, $29.27. Ages 8 up. Reviewer: Marilyn Courtot ISBN: 0-8368-2506-3 Book of Flight from the Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum Judith E. Rinard    Humans had dreamed of flying for eons. The National Air and Space Museum celebrates every phase of mankind's ascent into the sky. This publication takes a look at that collection and highlights many of its exhibits. Balloons and gliders were the first devices that went airborne. There were numerous attempts at powered flights, but of course, the Wright brothers were the first. With their flight in Kitty Hawk in 1903, they uncovered the secret of controlled human flight. Millions view that plane, the Flyer, every year at the Air and Space Museum. Flight took off in the early 1900s and aircraft played an important role in WWI. After the war, planes grew in importance as they were used for travel, freight and even entertainment. This overview of aviation takes us up to the present day and space stations, shuttles and even missions to Mars. Well illustrated, primarily with photographs, this is good preparation for a visit to the museum or a good souvenir. 2001, Firefly Books, $24.95 and $14.95. Ages 8 up. Reviewer: Kristin Harris ISBN: 1-55209-619-X ISBN: 1-55209-599-1 Born with a Bang Jennifer Morgan Illustrations by Dana Lynne Anderson    The Universe tells its own story of how it came to be, teaching science while creating a sense of wonder about how it all began. Beginning with a tiny speck, the Universe grows and changes as the eons pass, until finally, the world as we know it materializes. Gorgeous illustrations accompany each step of the journey from tiny speck to the vastness of space, adding a visual feast to the tale. The last part of the book offers a more detailed and scientific explanation of the creation of the Universe. Also included is a glossary to explain technical terms, and an extensive list of resources for both children and adults wishing to study astronomy further. 2002, Dawn Publications, Ages 5 to 8, $9.95. Reviewer: Joanne Draper ISBN: 1-58469-032-1 ISBN: 1-58469-033-X Can You Hear a Shout in Space? Questions and Answers About Space Exploration Melvin Berger and Gilda Berger Illustrated by Vincent Di Fate    Written in question/answer format, this book gets information across quickly and concisely in short bits of text. There are four sections--"Steps into Space," "Living in Space," "The Uses of Space", and "The Future in Space." Each section includes a variety of questions that will entice those young readers who are interested in space. There is an index but no glossary, because terms are defined within the text. Finely detailed, labeled paintings accompany each page. Some of the most interesting parts deal with the footprints and "junk" left on the moon and the space spider webs. Explanations about bodies getting taller and thinner while in space and how the astronauts exercise while in orbit are quite engaging. 2000, Scholastic, $5.95. Ages 9 to 12. Reviewer: Carol Lynch ISBN: 0-439-14879-0 ISBN: 0-439-09582-4 Destination, Space Seymour Simon    This collection of full-page color photographs taken by the Hubble Space Telescope is accompanied by clear, detailed descriptions of the images in each photograph, providing context and identifying specific features. Much of the text brings the images down to earth, so to speak, such as the comparison of stars in a star cluster to "the lights of New York City from an airplane." Although some of the images are highly pixellated or missing segments, the significance of the photographs, such as one of a black hole, is clearly emphasized through the text. Other photographs, such as those of stars being born in the Eagle Nebula or of two galaxies colliding, are amazingly clear and startlingly beautiful. Although this is not intended as an introduction to astronomy, the stunning photographs of planets, galaxies, and supernovas may inspire young readers to pick up a more comprehensive guide to the celestial features they've glimpsed here. 2002, HarperCollins, $15.95. Ages 7 to 12. Reviewer: Norah Piehl ISBN: 0-688-16289-4 ISBN: 0-688-16290-8 The Dictionary of Space Technology Joseph A. Angelo, Jr.    According to Angelo, this revised book opens up the language of space technology to all who wish to participate in, or at least understand, this grandest of human adventures. Want to know what a payload specialist is or need an explanation of the magnetosphere? Angelo offers students and others who really want to know definitions for 3,000 common and esoteric space terms. Black and white illustrations, charts, formulas and photographs are sprinkled throughout the text. The appendices contain measurement tables and a list of more than two dozen web sites. An excellent reference. 1999, Facts on File, $50.00. Ages 15 up. Reviewer: Marilyn Courtot ISBN: 0-816-03073-1 Best Books: Senior High School Library Catalog, Supplement to the Fifteenth Edition, 2000; H.W. Wilson; United States DK Guide to Space Peter Bond    In this beautiful oversized book, Bond takes readers on a photographic journey through the universe. The difference in clarity and detail when looking at the stars through a conventional telescope compared to the Hubble, which sits out in space beyond earth's atmosphere, is astounding. Each of the planets, their major moons, and the sun are visited during the journey as well as stars within and beyond our galaxy. The concise text (many of the pages have white text set on black pages) is accompanied by crisp full-color photographs. For those planets where there have been probe launches, photographs of the terrain, views of the planets from space, and summaries of what is known about these heavenly bodies are recapped for young astronomers. A great introduction to the heavens. 1999, DK, $19.95. Ages 8 up. Reviewer: Marilyn Courtot ISBN: 0-7894-3946-8 Best Books: Children's Catalog, Eighteenth Edition, 2001; H.W. Wilson; United States Middle and Junior High School Library Catalog, Eighth Edition, 2000; H.W. Wilson; United States Outstanding Science Trade Books for Children, 2000; National Science Teachers Association; United States Awards, Honors, Prizes: National Association of Parenting Publications Awards (NAPPA) Winner 1999 Nonfiction United States DK Space Encyclopedia Heather Couper and Nigel Henbest    In association with the Rose Center for Earth and Space at the American Museum of Natural History This appealing reference begins by illustrating how we observe our universe, and progresses through the ways in which we now explore it and use its vastness, such as placing satellites for a variety of purposes. Focus shifts to each planet in turn, with a strong unit on stars aimed at answering most questions, e.g., How are stars born? What is the sun like? and How do stars disappear or "die?" A further section aids the everyday stargazer who may have only limited equipment. Smaller sections feature mini-biographies of major space scientists and timelines that put this burgeoning science into perspective for learners. Best of all is the comprehensive, vibrant CD that accompanies this book. Surely there's room on your shelves for this title! 1999, DK Publishing, $29.95. Ages 8 up. Reviewer: Joan Carris ISBN: 0-7894-4708-8 ISBN: 0-7894-0881-3 (CD-ROM: for sale in N. Amer. only) Best Books: Notable Social Studies Trade Books for Young People, 2000; National Council for the Social Studies; United States Outstanding Science Trade Books for Children, 2000; National Science Teachers Association; United States Senior High School Library Catalog, Sixteenth Edition, 2002 ; H.W. Wilson; United States Senior High School Library Catalog, Supplement to the Fifteenth Edition, 2000; H.W. Wilson; United States Don't Know Much About Space Kenneth C. Davis Illustrated by Sergio Ruzzier    Anyone who is interested in space will love this well-organized book of facts. Likewise, those with little knowledge about the universe will find themselves drawn into the quick explanations that cover phenomena, history, objects, myths, discoveries and everything else about space. The information is provided in short snippets that use understandable language so that readers won't be overwhelmed. Each bit of information is presented as the answer to a question, giving a comfortable feel of the book. There are five general chapters in the book, which cover the history of astronomy, the sun, the weather in space, the size of the universe and the possibility of life on other planets. A chronology of space milestones and a glossary of terms are included at the end. Adults can fill in the gaps of their own knowledge as they share this book with children. Part of the "Don't Know Much about" series. 2001, HarperCollins, $19.95, $19.89, and $6.95. Ages 8 to 14. Reviewer: Carol Lynch ISBN: 0060286016 ISBN: 0064408353 Exploration Deborah Cannarella and Jane Fournier    This slim volume presents a timeline of events, discoveries, and inventions that impact the exploration of land, sea, and space. The historical discussion starts with the earliest known usage of the magnetic compass in 2600 BC and it ends with the SeaStar satellite in 1997 that measures marine plant life in the ocean. The last quarter of the book looks ahead at planned deep-sea, earth, and space explorations. For example, it touches upon future space tourism and the international space station of 2002. Short entries range from discussions of the esoteric, such as the astrolabe, the theodolite, the bathysphere, and the bathyscaph, to the more universally known, such as Peary's trip to the North Pole and Neil Armstrong's trip to the moon. The book is overly ambitious, however, and gives a sketchy overview of subjects that call for in-depth discussion. The timeline does not help the reader to see interrelationships of the various topics. The layout of photos and illustrations is visually jarring and confusing; and legends might clarify when or if the text refers to the pictures. An index and short reading list are included. 1999, The Rourke Press Inc, $25.93. Ages 10 up. Reviewer: Carol Raker Collins ISBN: 1571032738 Facts and Records: Space Clive Gifford    The second in the "Kingfisher Facts and Records" series, this reference book is designed to be perused, pondered and pored over. It continues the tradition of earliest humans who recorded celestial observations on cave walls by documenting our universe as scientists understand it to date. The book begins with our solar system and--somewhat like the Big Bang itself--expands rapidly in scope. Major topics include stars, solar systems, the universe, skywatching, people in space and the future. The quantity of information would be overwhelming were it not for superb page layout. Each section begins with a simple statement about the topic, then addresses subtopics in detail. Readers can focus on "Facts and Figures," look up questions in "The Databank," or pluck out highlighted factoids. Photographs and exquisite drawings offer deeper understanding of topics and make the book a visual feast. Little known facts will fascinate students. The Dogons of West Africa, for example, can see Saturn's rings without using a telescope. and the book matter-of-factly answers the question every student wants to know--how do astronauts go to the bathroom in space? An excellent index and reader-friendly glossary round out this superb reference. 2001, Kingfisher Publications/Larousse Kingfisher Chambers, $14.95. Ages 8 to 12. Reviewer: Stephanie Farrow ISBN: 0753453630 Get Around In Air and Space Lee Sullivan Hill    Emphasizing the transportation modes that use air to move in, this book in the "Get Around" series features photographs of all sorts of planes, space vehicles, and an assortment of oddities such as balloons, and gliders. Texts of one or two sentences per page declare general categories (commuter planes, supersonic jets), rather than technical specifics but more information is included in a "photo index" at back. Transportation fans, usually boys, will enjoy looking at the pictures and won't mind the lack of people. This is a good choice for second graders to read on their own and a good addition to the shelf of easy nonfiction reading. 2000, Carolrhoda, $21.27. Ages 4 to 8. Reviewer: Susan Hepler ISBN: 1-5750-5310-1 The Giant Book of Space John Farndon    Five, four, three, two, one--BLASTOFF! If a trip into space is in your future, this book is for you. But before taking off, flip open the cover of the book to get the facts about what you may discover in space. The face of a boy who looks amazed and a little green man in a space ship are symbols repeated throughout the book to help you zoom into amazing facts and mysteries. Specific information is included about planets, the sun, moons, galaxies, the night sky, the solar system, stars, big space, and spacecraft as well as other things. In addition to the thought-provoking text, the book is peppered with dazzling graphics that explain the topics in detail. A brilliant two-page spread midway through lays out the inferior and superior planets in the solar system. A chart depicting planet distances from the sun makes the material understandable. After reading about the effects of crashing asteroids and meteors you may choose to cover your head when gazing into the sky. State of the art telescopes and satellites are discussed and a fun-filled page of quizzes and glossary terms completes this well-structured book from "The Giant Book of" series. 2000, Copper Beach Books/Millbrook Press, $26.90 and $17.95. Ages 9 to 12. Reviewer: Nancy Garhan Attebury ISBN: 0-7613-1206-4 ISBN: 0-7613-0835-0 Best Books: Best Books for Children, 2001; Science Books & Films; United States Glow in the Dark Book of Space Nicholas Harris Illustrations by Sebastian Quigley    Did you know that all of the planets except Mercury and Venus have moons? In fact, Uranus has 21 moons. Did you know that Jupiter is large enough to contain 1,300 earths? And that Pluto lies inside Neptune's orbit? These are but a few of the interesting facts you will discover in this appealing book. The use of black pages with white text is very dramatic, and the vivid, photo-quality graphics make the planets come to life against the black backdrop. Add to this the glow-in-the-dark feature presented on every other set of pages and you have a playful read. Budding astronomers will have a chance to "see" the Milky Way, our solar system and all of the constellations in the night sky. The illustrations are clearly labeled, allowing for easy identification of the various elements of our galaxy. A glossary is provided for readers, along with a one-page chart of thought-provoking facts comparing all of the planets-their diameter, length of day and year as measured in Earth time, distance from the sun, surface temperature and number of moons. This book is an excellent resource for classroom teachers, as well as a great gift for junior astronomers. 2002, Orpheus Books/The Millbrook Press, Ages 8 to 12, $12.95. Reviewer: Lynne Swanson ISBN: 0-7613-1495-4 Great Discoveries & Inventions that Helped Explore Earth and Space    In double-page spreads, this reference book from Barcelona, Spain explains some of the tools and inventions that help scientists explore earth and outer space. Some of the instruments discussed include heliographs (sundials), quadrants for navigation, the seismograph,, rockets, space probes, underwater bathyscaphes, cartography and the telescope. While the casual reader may learn about aspects of modern and historical exploration, he or she will have to go elsewhere for more than basic information and names of key people in the field. The organization of subject matter jumps from earth to space to deep sea to space, which makes it harder to follow and absorb. Four fresh and interesting projects include making a sundial, designing a model eclipse, making a bottle rocket and making a 3-D relief map from a flat contour map. There is a somewhat confusing fifth project--directions for viewing sunspots indirectly through a telescope and a projection box you can build (but with no directions). A glossary, a generous but workaday collection of "More Books to Read," suggested videos and web sites and an index are also included. Part of the "Great Discoveries & Inventions" series. 2000 (orig. 1999), Gareth Stevens, $21.27. Ages 9 to 14. Reviewer: Susan Hepler ISBN: 0-8368-2584-5 The History of NASA Ray Spangenburg and Kit Moser    It has been a vision since man looked to the sky and wondered what was beyond this planet upon which we live. Many people know that Americans have landed on the moon. Shuttle launches have become more commonplace, and most recently; we have worked together with Russia to create an international space station. Yet, where did all this start? Starting with the first forays into space, including the Russian efforts, the authors explain why we got started and the smaller steps taken to lead to where we are now in space exploration. The tremendous amount of information in the text is reinforced with fact windows covering such things as "What Makes a Rocket Go" to "Shannon Lucid: Ambassador to Mir." Along with NASA mission timelines and numerous photographs, the space mission comes alive. The authors even extend their vision to describe what the future of space exploration might bring. In the age of space action movies and computer games it might be hard to find a book that will capture the imagination of children. This book, one of the "Out of This World" series, is able to accomplish just that. 2000, Grolier, $32.00 and $14.95. Ages 10 to Adult. Reviewer: John D. Orsborn ISBN: 0-531-11718-9 ISBN: 0-531-16511-6 Best Books: Middle and Junior High School Library Catalog, Supplement to the Eighth Edition, 2001; H.W. Wilson; United States The History of Rockets Ron Miller    About 800 years ago the Chinese developed the first practical rockets. These unpredictable devices were first put to use for celebratory occasions. The stunning flash, fiery arch, and colorful bursts all contributed to making Chinese rocketry a pre-cursor to modern Independence Day celebrations in the United States. However, it was not very long before early rocketeers found other uses for their creations. Military applications of rockets quickly followed and mankind was soon en route on a journey of discovery via rocketry that currently includes space travel to the outer reaches of our solar system. It is the story of the emergence, development, and refinement of rockets that makes up the meat of this informative book. The reader is provided a broad overview of the history of rocketry. The early human efforts to harness the power of rocket propulsion is detailed. Military applications of rocketry helped propel this branch of science to new heights. The British, and later the Germans, focused time and energy on perfecting ever more powerful and long-range rockets. Sadly, many of the practical tests of these devices involved warfare. The German scientist who developed the V-2 rocket created both a prototype for destruction and a launching point for modern space travel. In the post World War II era, competition between two great powers, The United States and the Soviet Union, spearheaded the evolution of rockets. Through the decades of the fifties and the sixties, both of these nations dedicated increasing amounts of resources to achieving breakthroughs in manned and unmanned space exploration. Ultimately, the American programs developed by NASA gained a lead and culminated with landings on the lunar surface. After that great event, efforts shifted to reusable spacecraft such as the Space Shuttles. At present, scientists attempt to create the new generation of spacecraft with an eye toward more prolonged and deeper space travel. All of these eye-opening areas are well handled in this clearly crafted history of mankind's efforts to perfect that amazing invention known as the rocket. 1999, Watts Library, $25.00 and $9.95. Ages 10 up. Reviewer: Greg M. Romaneck ISBN: 0-531-11430-9 ISBN: 0-531-15962-0 Best Books: Best Books for Junior High and High School Readers, 1999; Science Books & Films; United States Books for You: An Annotated Booklist for Senior High, Fourteenth Edition, 2001; National Council of Teachers of English; United States Middle and Junior High School Library Catalog, Eighth Edition, 2000; H.W. Wilson; United States In Space Michael Johnstone Consultant, Douglas Millard    Like other books in the series, this story of astronomy and space flight is presented in tabloid form. It opens with the ancient Greeks, who spent lots of time stargazing and who developed theories about the heavenly bodies that went unchallenged for centuries. Short reports introduce great names in space studies such as Copernicus, Kepler, Galileo, and Sir Isaac Newton. Their discoveries built a basis of scientific knowledge that led to physicists such as Goddard who dreamed of space flight and successfully built a rocket launcher. Early space flights and the manned space program are detailed as well as the major unmanned explorations of Mars and the outer planets. Interspersed with the accounts are a few ads featuring telescopes, membership in the Rocket Society, and recruitment of astronauts. A time line puts space exploration in perspective and there also is an index to help those undertaking research. 1999, Candlewick, $16.99. Ages 8 to 12. Reviewer: Marilyn Courtot ISBN: 0-7636-0490-9 Best Books: Middle and Junior High School Library Catalog, Eighth Edition, 2000; H.W. Wilson; United States The Kingfisher Facts and Records Book    Did you know the first motorcar race was in France in 1894 and that the average speed in the race was 15 miles an hour? Or that the average heart beats over two billion times in a lifetime without stopping? Or that the coldest temperature ever recorded on Earth was 128'F below zero in Antarctica in 1983? Well, these facts and many others like them would be yours if you read this information-intensive, oversize book. Like other books from this publisher, there are pages and pages of pictures, captions, info bites and narrative chunks--all chock full of information that browsers will enjoy reading. Information seekers will be guided by a table of contents that divides the individual fact-filled pages into categories such as, "Space," "Sports," and "The Future," and by an index that will point researchers to their specific area of study. There is something for everyone here in this waiting-room-type book that invites frequent, short-term visits. 2000, Kingfisher Publications, $14.95. Ages 8 up. Reviewer: Judy Katsh ISBN: 0-7534-5270-7 The Kingfisher Science Encyclopedia General editor, Charles Taylor    The 1993 Kingfisher Science Encyclopedia has been on my reference shelf for quite a few years. I find the children's reference books invaluable when I first encounter a new subject or need to do a little quick fact checking. The 2000 edition is a very different book. It takes a classified approach and has more than 3,500 indexed references and 2000 full-color illustrations. It includes other useful information in a "Ready Reference" section--units of measure, conversion tables, geometric shapes, glossary and brief list of famous scientists. The book is divided into ten thematic sections--Planet Earth, Living Things, Human Biology, Chemistry and the Elements, Materials and Technology, Light and Energy, Forces and Movement, Electricity and Electronic, Space and Time, and Conservation and the Environment. The entry about renewable energy sources has diagrams of two wind turbines and a picture showing a wind farm that by 2030, would generate 25 percent of Denmark's energy. The section entitled, Space and Time features the universe, comets, meteors, artificial satellites, modern astronomy and the solar system, which includes at least one page for each of the planets. The book will appeal to browsers and those seeking specific information. 2000, Kingfisher, $39.95. Ages 8 up. Reviewer: Marilyn Courtot ISBN: 0-7534-5269-3 Best Books: Best Books for Junior High and High School Readers, 2001; Science Books & Films; United States Middle and Junior High School Library Catalog, Supplement to the Eighth Edition, 2001; H.W. Wilson; United States Smithsonian Magazine's Notable Books for Children, 2000; Smithsonian; United States My Special Book of Space Ian Graham    This comprehensive information book about space and space exploration is a good introduction for the primary grade reader. It offers plenty of clear and colorful illustrations with text that presents just enough to launch one into further study. Only two space travelers are named, Yuri Gagarin and Neil Armstrong, but there are plenty of named vehicles and equipment. Topics are featured on double-page spreads in this large formatted book. The moon is emphasized, to include the history of the moon and phases of the moon, from waxing to waning. More information about the nature of the international space station would have provided a balance to this heavily U.S.A.-centric book. A glossary, index and useful web sites end the book. 2001, Kingfisher, $14.95. Ages 6 to Adult. Reviewer: Jacki Vawter ISBN: 0-7534-5399-1 Mysterious Space Lisa McCourt and Lisa M. Bernstein Illustrated by Cheryl Nathan    Do you have an older child with an interest in outer space? Then this is the book for you. Lisa McCourt and Lisa M. Bernstein seem to leave no stone unturned in this detailed exploration of our solar system and everything it contains. Did you know that stars are actually hot, dense clumps of glowing gasses made up primarily of hydrogen and helium? Or that the sun is 740 times more massive than all the other planets combined? There is so much information in this book that I found myself saying "Wow, I didn't know that" on nearly every page, despite my fairly proficient knowledge of our solar system and its components. The book is well-written, colorfully illustrated and has a layout that will appeal to kids. Mysterious Space is a useful reference, especially for that inevitable science project. A very interesting book, full of nuggets of information. Part of the "Brain Builders" series. 2000, Lowell House, $7.95. Ages 7 to 12. Reviewer: Emily Cook ISBN: 0-7373-0465-0 Out In Space David Conrad    The attractive and informative books in the "Spyglass Books" series that focuses on life science, earth science, and physical science follow a similar format. They open with a table of contents page and then move right into the subject. Each chapter or section features a heading in large type; words that are defined in the glossary are printed in bold. The text consists of mostly declarative sentences. For example, "In space there is no air for people to breathe, and no food or water to keep them alive." The pictures on the opposing pages often contain additional information such as the fact that the Hubble Space Telescope is 372 miles (600 km) above the earth. The photographs and illustrations are all labeled and appropriate to the content. The text is simple, since these books are aimed at readers in grades 1 and 2. At the end of the text there is an activity. In this case after learning about space and our nearest neighbors in space, kids are asked to draw the type of creature that might come from that planet. The bolded words are defined; there is a resource list with a few references, which are reasonably current; references to web sites followed by an index and brief introduction to the author. 2002, Compass Point Books, $18.60. Ages 5 to 7. Reviewer: Marilyn Courtot ISBN: 0-7565-0242-X Scholastic First Encyclopedia: All About Space    A comprehensive information book for early readers will have good illustrations and simple text. This book covers the solar system, the study of space and space travel with excellent photos, diagrams, drawings and an organized text that is understandable for the primary grade student. Unique to this book is a list of related entries on each page to guide readers to other sections of the book for more information. These cross-references will assist readers to use informational books as tools to acquire more background on the topic of space. Each chapter is a double-page spread with sidebars, full sentence captions, select vocabulary in bold and sub-titled paragraphs. A team of consultants put this book together but unfortunately, the scientists are named without science affiliations. 2002, Scholastic Reference, $7.95. Ages 6 to 9. Reviewer: Jacki Vawter ISBN: 0-439-33020-3 Space David and Patricia Armentrout    Elementary research is at your fingertips in this simply intelligent dictionary of space terms from the "50 Words About" series. Large print, clear text, and vividly expressive pictures make this an excellent resource. Each of the fifty entries includes a definition of a term, use of the term in a sentence, and a picture related to the term. While young children will enjoy looking at the unusual pictures, perusing the alphabetic format, and discovering new concepts related to outer space; older children will use this as a true resource, gaining much from concise definitions of potentially complicated words such as eclipse, and meteorite, or the difference between revolve and rotate. Elementary science teachers will appreciate the way in which this book clearly describes difficult terms. Armentrout and Armentrout include an informative "Did you know . . .?" fact section following the space dictionary. A helpful pronunciation key, index, and a more information section add to the value of this great elementary reference book. 2003, Rourke Publishing, $26.60. Ages 5 to 8. Reviewer: Sarah Nelson ISBN: 1-58952-343-1 Space Claude Delafosse and Gallimard Jeunesse Illustrated by Donald Grant    Enter into the amazing world of space through this addition to "A First Discovery Book" series. With a "magic" paper flashlight provided in the back of the book, young readers can explore the wonders of space and other sights in the sky. The book succinctly explains the history of observing the stars and planets in the sky and progresses through modern times. Scientific inventions are explained, such as telescopes and satellites. Each set of pages includes a durable transparency and explanations about the items the reader will find with the paper flashlight. Children will appreciate an adult's help reading this book to them as they search for the hidden sights on each page. A corresponding key on each page of hidden objects is helpful, especially for the constellations and aircrafts. Made of durable binding, this book will withstand the handling of young future scientists. 2000, Scholastic, $12.95. Ages 5 to 8. Reviewer: Lisa Hillstrom ISBN: 0-439-14826-X Space Exploration John Farndon    This 32-page beginner's book of space exploration is divided into fourteen sections addressing specific topics. The first four sections cover tools for exploring space, including observatories, space telescopes and radio telescopes. Six sections discuss space travel equipment and personnel, namely rockets, space flights, space shuttles, satellites, astronauts and space stations. Four more sections cover missions, like visiting the inner planets, visiting the outer planets, future missions in general and details about some select missions. Farndon peppers each section with short blurbs of information. Question boxes answer queries like, "How did Hubble get into space?" Zoom In On boxes contain details about how telescopes and rocket engines work. Awesome Facts diamonds provide space trivia--Mauna Kea, Hawaii has the world's largest observatory (13,800 feet high). An index and a glossary are included. Clear pictures and diagrams help readers to understand some of the communications and engineering concepts that are discussed. Farndon's book could easily be used as part of a space science curriculum. Part of the "Awesome Space" series. 2001, Copper Beech, $23.40. Ages 9 to 12. Reviewer: Chris Gill ISBN: 0-7613-2411-9 Space Explorer Atlas Richard Platt Illustrated by Leo Hartas    Join astronomer Izzy Surespark and rocket buff Norbert Crane in a search for intelligent life in space. While the actual travel by Izzy and Norbert is an amusing fantasy as are their exploits, the information about the solar system and space is factual. This is a book with multiple paths. Kids can read the comic strip adventure story of the two space explorers or they can concentrate on the factual information about the stars, planets, solar system and universe. There is also a challenge--a series of black and white photographs to be identified (answers are at the end of the book). Fact boxes appear on nearly every page, and reading the book first will enable kids to get the correct answers. There is an index. 1999, DK Publishing, $14.95. Ages 6 up. Reviewer: Marilyn Courtot ISBN: 0-7894-4284-1 Space Mission Patches Gregory L. Vogt    This engaging book has an interesting spin--it is cleverly organized to reveal the history of space flight and NASA's goal to reach the moon through the lens of space mission patches. Beginning in the early days of the space program, the astronauts chose symbols to represent the goals of their particular missions, and these designs were sewn onto patches and worn on team members' spacesuits. Although the astronauts still have a say, the patches have evolved over the last thirty years to a sophisticated level involving designers, graphic artists and literary symbols. The author suggests that the patches are symbols that help to create team spirit and trust between the partners on a mission. Each chapter focuses on a particular program or mission. Rather than just listing a timeline of the space missions, the author explains each mission's purpose. The mission patch for the Apollo 11 flight, which landed Neil A. Armstrong and Edwin E. Aldrin Jr. on the moon is particularly striking. There is a gold border around a field of black, and a small planet earth is sewn onto this, with the words "Apollo 11" in gold. Above a blue lunar surface, there is a bald eagle, representing America, about to land, with its wings spread and an olive branch, the universal symbol for peace, held in its talons. The daring, intellectual prowess and yearning human imagination revealed in these patches are very moving. This is a well-written, highly educational book, and would be an excellent and appealing addition to any school library. 2001, The Millbrook Press, $24.90. Ages 10 up. Reviewer: Nancy Partridge ISBN: 0761316132 Spaced Out! An Extreme Reader ... From Warps and Wormholes To Killer Asteroids Bill Scheller Design by C. Shane Sykes    This is my first introduction to Planet Dexter books and I was duly impressed. So much information about space (astronauts, constellations, rockets, Big Bang theory, light-speed travel, meteorites and more) was presented in a clever and interesting way. The book lends itself to being read in small segments, a chapter at a time, but one may tend to get carried away by it all and read it straight through. I think kids will be excited about this material and most especially by the way that it is presented. 1999, Planet Dexter/Penguin Putnam Books for Young Readers, $9.99. Ages 7 to 11. Reviewer: Barbara Youngblood ISBN: 0448440776 Space Science Peter Pentland Pennie Stoyles    All aspects of space science are thoroughly investigated in this unique student reference book of the "Science and Scientists" series. Pentland and Stoyles cleverly pack an incredible amount of information into the 32 pages of this book. Each two-page spread, essentially a mini-article, greets the reader with a bright and intriguing title covering a distinct topic of space science. Some of the topics covered include: Telescopes can find more than planets; How do you send things into space?; Rocket science; How does science help people survive in space?; and Meet a NASA scientist. Headings and subtitles within each two-page spread give the reader quick access to specifics regarding the topic. Helpful pictures, diagrams, and captions offer even more detail about each subject. Words found in the glossary appear in bold print throughout the text, while science terms appear in bold print surrounded by a purple box signaling that the reader can find more information about the science term nearby on the same page. The index, table of contents, glossary, and space science timeline improve ease in locating information and make this a helpful tool for student research projects. Although at times reminiscent of a textbook, Pentland and Stoyles have created an exceptional resource for the upper elementary/middle school library or classroom covering complex concepts in an accessible manner. 2003 (orig. 2002), Chelsea House Publishers, $18.95. Ages 10 to 14. Reviewer: Sarah Nelson ISBN: 0791070115 Time & Space John Gribbin and Mary Gribbin    For centuries scientists have attempted to understand the concepts of time and space. Even now, in an era where we pride ourselves on our scientific accomplishments, we have only the most basic understanding of our planet's place in the universe. Concepts such as black holes, time travel, and the inner workings of atoms are the focus of intense research. Yet, despite mankind's efforts to grasp outer space and the relationship of time to space, these realities remain little understood. In this volume of the "Eyewitness Books" series, the reader is introduced to essential elements of practice and study through text, full-color photographs, 3-D model simulations, and sidebars featuring key experiments. The quantum theory, sub-atomic particles, relativity, and the "big bang" theory are presented in a multi-faceted manner. What we understand to be common sense may, indeed, be totally wrong when related to space and time. For example, why would time move backwards if travel was at a tremendous rate of speed? This seems to make no sense yet Einstein and subsequent physicists are convinced of its truth. All in all, Time & Space provides some thought-provoking material for students interested in this aspect of science. While the text is somewhat complex for a general reader it is appropriate for use with highly motivated or academically talented students. 2000, DK Publishing, $15.95. Ages 12 up. Reviewer: Greg M. Romaneck ISBN: 0789455781 ISBN: 0789461714 Ultimate Field Trip 5: Blasting Off to Space Academy Susan E. Goodman Photographs by Michael J. Doolittle    Ever wanted to know what it would be like to be an astronaut? Join author Susan Goodman, a former Space Camp participant, as she follows the kids of Team Europa through their U.S. Space Academy experience. Written in a lively style highlighted by quotes from the team members and amply illustrated with terrific color photographs, this account of a week-long plunge into the astronaut's world will captivate even the most science-phobic reader. In their short time at space camp, the Team Europa kids have a blast practicing moon walks in the 1/6 gravity chair; simulating weightlessness in the Space Shot ("an elevator with an attitude"); figuring out how to live in cramped space quarters; building rockets and team spirit; and finally planning and carrying out a "mission". The story is so entertaining that readers will scarcely notice how much science is included, making this book an excellent supplement to the middle school science curriculum. The book ends with a useful glossary and short bibliography . It is part of the Ultimate Field Trips series. 2001, Atheneum Books for Young Readers/Simon & Schuster, $17.00. Ages 8 to 12. Reviewer: Joyce Schwartz ISBN: 0689830440 Best Books: Children's Catalog, Eighteenth Edition, Supplement, 2002; H.W. Wilson; United States Visual Encyclopedia of Science    Each of the 512 pages in this encyclopedia is smaller than a six-inch square. But each of the 512 pages is power-packed and carries more than its share of information. The information is well-arranged for easy access. There are sections about "Chemistry and Physics," "Earth and Weather," "Space," and "The Living World." Within each section are well-categorized and clearly labeled collections of information about topics that fall under the general heading. There are page markers visible on the edges of the pages that can help readers turn right to the section they want. The organization is thorough and systematic, there is a two-page spread instructing readers about its use and there is a complete index and table of contents--all of these make this book a user-friendly resource for information seekers. The print is small and the pages are packed, so recreational readers may have to look elsewhere for light reading. But readers who need basic, easy to locate information with them at all times will find this small volume to be a worthy companion. 2000, Dorling Kindersley, $16.95. Ages 8 up. Reviewer: Judy Katsh ISBN: 0789466767 Who's Who in Space: The International Space Station Edition Michael Cassutt    A reference book for the millenium, this compilation offers more than 600 pages of facts about the space programs in the US, Russian and other parts of the world. The change in world politics and the development of a truly international space station has brought former rival space programs together. This revised edition brings much of the know data about the intrepid space explorers together profiling astronauts from all major programs. The first section is a list of acronyms, abbreviations and their definitions. An essential guide since the text like the programs if full of acronyms. The first section of the book is devoted to NASA which includes the background of the space program, all of the astronaut groups followed by biographies of all of the astronauts. Black and white photographs appear throughout. The same approach is used for the Russian cosmonauts and the international astronauts in subsequent sections. The appendices are not to be overlooked; they contain a chronology of manned space flights (the launch date, crews, call sign, landing data, duration and other remarks), a list of space travelers, time in space, EVA data and more, also there is an extensive index. Within the text there are fascinating tidbits such as full color reproductions of the NASA mission crew patches, personally written pieces by the astronauts about the launch process, the view of earth from space and the like. This revised edition contains 80 new entries from the previous and all entries have been updated. A resource for reports as well as anyone interested in the factual data related to the manned missions into space. 1999, Macmillan, $115.00. Ages 10 up. Reviewer: Marilyn Courtot ISBN: 0-02-864965-6 Best Books: Middle and Junior High School Library Catalog, Eighth Edition, 2000; H.W. Wilson; United States To stay up to date on new books on this topic, consider subscribing to The Children's Literature Comprehensive Database. For your free trial, click here. Updated 4/4/03