Planets in Our Solar System
Once upon a time, we learned that there were nine planets, including Earth, that travel around our Sun. You may know that Jupiter is the biggest planet in our solar system and you may have learned that Pluto is the farthest away. Now that has changed and there are eight major planets and three dwarf planets that circle our sun. But do you know which of the planets has the most moons? Or which is the warmest? Find out how fast planets orbit and which have the tallest mountains and deepest oceans by exploring some of the books below.
Reviews
11 Planets: A New View of the Solar System
David A. Aguilar
While most people learned that nine planets exist in the solar system, a change in the definition of a "planet" in the last few years now gives us 11 planets to learn about. This excellent book, written by a leading expert on the subject, takes a complex subject and offers it to the mid-grade reader in understandable terms. The new solar system, including the addition of Ceres and Eris as planets, is explained well. The text is packed with fascinating facts and brilliant computer artwork that gives the reader the feeling of being "up close and personal" with every planet. Of special interest are the symbols and pictures of gods and goddesses associated with each planet. The practical yet engaging format is one that presents information about the planets in the order they appear from the sun. Each planet is fully covered by a spread consisting of one page of text and another of photos. This book is a must for middle grade students learning about the solar system. It can be described as striking, attention-grabbing and educational without seeming to be didactic. A sure winner is a great opening page, written by a National Geographic Planet Contest winner, in the form of a trick to help remember the names of the planets in their order from the Sun. 2008, National Geographic Children’s Books, $16.95. Ages 9 to 12. Reviewer: Nancy Garhan Attebury (Children's Literature).
ISBN: 978-1-4263-0236-7
ISBN: 1-4263-0236-3
Amazing Solar System Projects You Can Build Yourself
Delano Lopez
Astronomy is a fascinating subject, but it can be tricky at times. An excellent way to illustrate astronomical concepts such as how far the earth is from the sun is to show students through projects. In this book, Lopez presents numerous projects to help beginning astronomers understand the basics. It is divided into three sections: "What Is the Solar System?," "Astronomy and Exploration Tools," and "Beyond the Solar System." The book also includes a timeline, a glossary, and other useful references. Some of the projects include building a greenhouse, making craters in sand, making an asteroid jigsaw puzzle, and constructing a Newtonian telescope. Each of the projects includes detailed instructions and illustrations. Lopez also includes enough astronomy information that both seasoned astronomy students and those new to the field can understand the basics behind the projects. Both the history and the future of the field are explained in easy-to-understand detail. Even if the projects were removed, the book would be an excellent text on astronomy. 2008, Nomad Press, $14.95. Ages 9 to 14. Reviewer: Amie Rose Rotruck (Children's Literature).
ISBN: 978-0-9792-2681-6
ISBN: 0-9792-2681-3
And Then There Were Eight: Poems About Space
Laura Purdie Salas
A friendly entry--or a return visit--to poetry, an oft-dreaded subject for many ages. Salas has the knack of weaving wonderful words about the space adventure and our planets into engaging poems in various formats. This is a terrific piece to complement an integrated curriculum as the poetry easily lends itself to further exploration of the subjects. For example: Why was Pluto no longer considered a planet? Is it now? What do you think? The possibilities are endless. As a work of poetry this can stand alone. Following the poems are definitions of types of poetry (e.g., haiku, acrostics), with the page numbers for examples provided. When was the last time you read a cinquain? The photographs, which are mostly from NASA, are stunning as well, and will lead to further investigation. Take a look at the Sky Eye on page 7. Have fun imagining who or what could belong to that ‘eye.’ Art students will enjoy this book as well, for its visual beauty and placement of text. Salas has done her homework for this addition to the A+ Books series and makes poetry enjoyable visually, textually and factually. Do not forget to read the fine print on most of the double-page spreads. 2008, Capstone Press, $23.93. Ages 8 to 12. Reviewer: Elizabeth Young (Children's Literature).
ISBN: 978-1-4296-1207-4
ISBN: 1-4296-1207-X
Beyond: A Solar System Voyage
Michael Benson
Space and the Moon landing are in focus for the year 2009 and especially the month of July which brings us the 40th anniversary of the Moon landing. Fabulous as that was, what we have learned about our solar system and beyond is just as exciting. Most of this knowledge has been gleaned by unmanned space probes which have become more and more sophisticated and send back incredible pictures like the ones on the jacket of this book. Saturn and its rings are enough to entice most any reader to open it up. The back cover depicts Jupiter and the actual hard cover of the book features two pictures from planet Mars which is one of the upcoming targets of human exploration. The organization of the book is one that appeals to me—there is a brief history featuring early thinkers and astronomers and how they saw the solar system. It may be eye-opening for some to realize that the Assyrian’s made star charts and that the Babylonians were able to predict eclipses. Some names like Galileo and Copernicus will be familiar as may be the name of the first man to travel in space, Russia’s Yuri Gagarin. His accomplishment spurred the U.S to establish NASA and get really serious about putting a man on the Moon. The book addresses the history of space exploration chronologically, as men built probes that could photograph the moon and show its backside for the first time and then on to probes that could stand the incredible heat of Venus and Mercury and the freezing cold of Mars and the outer planets. The photographs are something to savor--gorgeous shots of the Earth, Sun, Mars and so much more. One spread shows a sunset on Mars which is the reverse of what we see on Earth. Others show moons, planets, planetary rings, as well as land forms and volcanic activity on these distant worlds. They are set on black pages with the text printed in white, which may be a little challenging for young readers, although the text itself could be read be someone in middle school. The closing pages comment on the "astonishing process of discovery that has led us to our current understanding of our Solar System and the greater Galaxy and Universe." There is a glossary, index and notes and photo credits as well as a selected bibliography and list of web sites. A great addition to any middle school or public library. 2009, Harry N. Abrams, Ages 12 up, $19.95. Reviewer: Marilyn Courtot (Children’s Literature).
ISBN: 978-0-8109-8322-9
Brightest In The Sky: The Planet Venus
Nancy Loewen
Illustrated by Jeff Yesh
With its large square pages and poster-bright pictures, the "Amazing Science: Planet" series is designed to have maximum visual appeal for young space explorers. It largely succeeds, presenting quite a bit of information about each planet in nine double-page spreads (liberally sprinkled with "Fun Facts" boxes) that show sizes, composition, surfaces, orbits, rotations, and something about each planet’s exploration. Readers are introduced to Venus through its exceptional brightness and its appearances as both morning and evening stars. Through both pictures and text, the book explains Venus’s blazing temperatures, its thick layer of gases, and its thousands of volcanoes. While this hottest planet is about the size of Earth, readers will learn that it has a very long day (equal to 243 Earth days) and, like Uranus, rotates clockwise. Suggesting flat acrylic paintings, Yesh’s illustrations are actually created through digital media. Though not realistic in style, their brilliant colors on dark backgrounds make them eye-catching, often glowing, and sometimes action-filled, as in a depiction of a Venus volcano erupting. Loewen provides instructions for a simple science project that uses two jars and heat from the sun to demonstrate how hot gases are trapped on Venus. Included are a glossary, a short bibliography of children’s books about the planet, and a few more facts about Venus, such as that it has phases much like our moon. This lively series should be fun for budding astronomers; who knows, it might inspire some planetary poetry or astronomical art. 2008, Picture Window, $25.26. Ages 7 to 10. Reviewer: Barbara L. Talcroft (Children's Literature).
ISBN: 978-1-4048-3958-8
ISBN: 1-4048-3958-5
ISBN: 978-1-4048-3967-0
ISBN: 1-4048-3967-4
Dwarf Planets
Robin Birch
Originally published in Australia, this "New Solar System" series delivers the latest astronomical news through 2008, illustrations on every page, and lots of statistics. In five or six brief chapters, young scientists will learn about the planets and other heavenly bodies such as small revolving objects called, since 2006, dwarf planets—tiny Ceres (an asteroid), Pluto (formerly designated a planet), and grey, distant Eris. In Dwarf Planets, readers discover that Ceres, (named for the Roman goddess of agriculture) orbits the sun in the asteroid belt between Mars and Jupiter; we can occasionally see Ceres without a telescope. Pluto, named for the Roman god of the underworld (shown in a statue with his three-headed dog), revolves in an elliptical, tilted orbit and has one large moon, Charon, and two smaller ones. Icy Eris, named for the Greek goddess of discord, and its moon Dysnomia revolve slowly about the sun in an off-center orbit; Eris was found in photographs taken through a telescope, while Dysnomia was discovered with a laser guide system at an observatory in Hawaii. For those intrigued by space exploration, the author explains that dwarf planets have not yet been visited by space probes, though one is on its way to Pluto and another contemplated for Ceres in 2015. Clear, no-nonsense text moves along briskly, while illustrations, usually eye-catching, are here somewhat dimmer. Further help includes a "Dwarf Planets Fact Summary," a glossary, and a list of websites. 2008 (orig. 2004), Chelsea Clubhouse/Chelsea House, Ages 8 to 11, $23.00. Reviewer: Barbara L. Talcroft (Children's Literature).
ISBN: 978-1-60413-216-8
Dwarf planets : Pluto, Charon, Ceres, and Eris
Nancy Loewen
Illustrated by Jeff Yesh
With its large square pages and poster-bright pictures, the "Amazing Science: Planet" series is designed to have maximum visual appeal for young space explorers. It largely succeeds, presenting quite a bit of information about each planet in nine double-page spreads (liberally sprinkled with "Fun Facts" boxes) that show sizes, composition, surfaces, orbits, rotations, and something about each planet’s exploration. Readers are introduced to the four dwarf planets through a new definition of major planets (2006), which has led to the recent reclassification of Pluto as a dwarf planet. Through pictures and text, the book explains sluggish Pluto’s orbit and rotation, its icy temperature, and its moon Charon, which is locked by gravity with Pluto. Kids will learn that Ceres (once thought to be an asteroid) and Eris (larger than Pluto) have also been designated dwarf planets; all are named from Greek or Roman mythology. Suggesting flat acrylic paintings, Yesh’s illustrations are actually created with digital media. Though not realistic in style, their brilliant colors on dark backgrounds make them eye-catching, often glowing, and sometimes action-filled. Loewen suggests a simple science/language project that involves making up playful sentences to help memorize the order of the planets and dwarfs. Includes a glossary, a short bibliography of children’s books about the dwarf planets, and a few more dwarf planet facts, such as tat a U.S. spacecraft will approach Pluto and Charon in 2015. This lively series should be fun for budding astronomers; who knows, it might inspire some planetary poetry or astronomical art. 2008, Picture Window, $25.26. Ages 7 to 10. Reviewer: Barbara L. Talcroft (Children's Literature).
ISBN: 978-1-4048-3950-2
ISBN: 978-1-4048-3959-5
ISBN: 1-4048-3950-X
ISBN: 1-4048-3959-3
Earth
Robin Birch
Originally published in Australia, this "New Solar System" series delivers the latest astronomical news through 2008, illustrations on every page, and lots of statistics. In five or six brief chapters, young scientists will learn about the planets and other heavenly bodies and the space exploration that provided the information. An attractive extra is a short explanation and illustration of Greek or Roman deities associated with the planets. In Earth, readers are introduced to our solar system (an antique drawing shows Ptolemy’s plan of Earth as the center of the universe), while another chapter explores Earth’s revolution and rotation, seasons, oxygen-rich atmosphere, and magnetic field, as well as its mountains and volcanoes. A "Water" chapter explains the importance of this element to all life on Earth, and as the source of weather and shaper of the earth’s crust. Young earth scientists may not realize that we see only one side of our Moon, which, like Earth, consists of a crust, mantle, and core. For those intrigued by space exploration, the author points out that Earth has been explored since ancient times on foot and on horseback, with rafts and sailing ships, and now through scientific instruments and satellite photos. Clear, no-nonsense text moves along briskly, while illustrations (mostly in saturated colors on dark backgrounds) are eye-catching. Further help includes an "Earth Fact Summary," a glossary, and a list of websites. 2008 (orig. 2004), Chelsea Clubhouse/Chelsea House, Ages 8 to 11, $23.00. Reviewer: Barbara L. Talcroft (Children's Literature).
ISBN: 978-1-60413-210-6
The Earth: Our Home Planet
David Jefferis
Cool blues and greens help set the tone for this volume about planet Earth. The book is organized into three distinct sections that introduce and reinforce its main ideas and vocabulary. The first section discusses basic facts about the planet’s formation and its place within the solar system. The second explores the core, mantle and crust; the third focuses on technology related to "Earth Resources Satellites." Each short chapter poses a question. Two to three queries further develop these investigations in a style that demonstrates the scientific method while raising concerns about global warming and overpopulation. As a result, the presentation feels organic and non-linear with information detailed in two-page spreads that stand alone. The planet is definitely the star of the show here; only one photo shows a human being. The text concludes with a "Database" of statistics. Includes a glossary and an index that support review of the book. One of four appealing titles in the "Exploring Our Solar System" series, this is a beautiful survey of the living world. 2008, Buzz Books/Crabtree, $8.95. Ages 9 to 11. Reviewer: Tina Dybvik (Children's Literature).
ISBN: 978-0-7787-3746-9
ISBN: 0-7787-3746-2
ISBN: 978-0-7787-3730-8
ISBN: 0-7787-3730-6
Explore the Solar System
Anita Yasuda
Illustrated by Bryan Stone
Basic information about our solar system is easily absorbed through the text, inset boxes that highlight words to know, and a variety of activities. There are even a few jokes scattered here and there. Readers learn that although the Greeks believed in an Earth centric system, today we know that the Sun not the Earth is the center of our solar system. The book presents a clever way to remember the planets. A game called The Galaxy Scavenger Hunt provides a chance to learn more about our solar system. The game can be expanded to include astronomers, astronauts and anything space related. Another interesting project is the creation of an origami solar system mobile. After reading this book kids will have obtained lots of facts, trivia to amuse family and friends, and projects for rainy or lazy summer days. An added bonus is an opportunity to increase vocabularies because in addition to the words called out in the text there is a glossary at the end of the book. For those who love computer resources there are web sites and for others there is a list of science museums and planetariums. The index identifies all the activities as well as other topics addressed in the book. It is a title that could be used by teachers in the elementary grades, scout leaders and homeschoolers. 2009, Nomad Press, Ages 6 to 9, $12.95. Reviewer: Marilyn Courtot
ISBN: 978-1-934670-36-1
Exploring the Solar System: A History with 22 Activities
Mary Kay Carson
There are boring history books and there are those that become page-turners. Exploring the Solar System is clearly one of the latter. Starting with the ancient philosophers, the author quickly manages to pique the interest of the reader. Almost every page has activities, diagrams, or biographical information on individuals who made major contributions to our knowledge of the solar system. The activities are well described and can be accomplished by most middle school students. The book starts with a time line that carries us from prehistory through 2006. The individual chapters are separated into decades after reaching the 1960s. At one point, there is a great description of space probes, including flyby probes and rovers. Each of the six basic kinds is explained, and examples are listed for every category. The author does an excellent job merging the Russian discoveries with those of the United States. The book introduces us to the discoveries as we learned them in history. It truly creates a mental time line and makes the reader want to continue the saga. Many of the images are of spacecraft, but the author has interspersed photos of the planets as well as pictures of scientists, both men and women, at work. The scientific method is clearly shown, with historical accounts of scientists grappling with problems and trying to find solutions to them. I highly recommend this book highly for both the library and the classroom. Students who become interested in the story may, in future, become one of the scientists whose work will benefit our understanding of the solar system and beyond. Reading this volume made me want to be young again. The sky is no longer the limit! Glossary; Index; C.I.P. Highly Recommended, Grades 7-8. 2008, Chicago Review Press, 168pp., $17.95. Ages 12 to 14. Reviewer: JoAnne M. Harris (Science Books and Films (Vol. 44, No. 4))
ISBN: 1-5565-2715-2
ISBN: 978-1-55652715-9
Far-Out Science Projects About Earth's Sun and Moon
Robert Gardner
Illustrations by Tom LaBaff
Our senses tell us that the Earth is fixed and that the Sun moves, but science tells us something quite different. A good way to help young students understand the scientific viewpoint is by having them do some simple experiments. This book on the Sun and Moon is part of a series called Rockin' Earth Science Experiments. Its inquiry approach will help students develop sound concepts in Earth science. Each of the book's chapters focuses on an experiment designed to illustrate a specific concept. For example, one experiment looks at telling time using the Sun by constructing a simple sundial. The experiments are clearly described, are well-illustrated, and provide a complete list of resources (including adults when needed). Each chapter presents several good ideas that students could develop into science fair projects. The learning approach behind these experiments is the inquiry model. By asking questions, solving problems, observing, and making alterations if the instructions do not work well, students learn a lot about how to do science work. And they have a lot of fun doing so! A simple glossary, some references and websites for further research, and an index make this book ideal to support independent research as well as a great source of classroom activities. Grades K-4. 2007, Enslow Publishers, 48p, $23.93. Ages 5 to 10. Reviewer: Donald Logsdon Jr. (National Science Teachers Association (NSTA))
ISBN: 978-0-7660-2736-7
ISBN: 0-7660-2736-8
Farthest From the Sun: The Planet Neptune
Nancy Loewen
Illustrated by Jeff Yesh
With its large square pages and poster-bright pictures, the "Amazing Science: Planet" series is designed to have maximum visual appeal for young space explorers. It largely succeeds, presenting quite a bit of information about each planet in nine double-page spreads (liberally sprinkled with "Fun Facts" boxes) that show sizes, composition, surfaces, orbits, rotations, and something about each planet’s exploration. Readers are introduced to Neptune through its discovery, when scientists used math to predict its position. Pictures and text explain remote Neptune’s huge size and icy temperatures, its fiery core, and a year that’s nearly 165 Earth-years long. Kids will learn that scientists are especially interested in watching Triton, Neptune’s largest moon, which has geyser-like eruptions and orbits in the opposite direction to the twelve others, because it may one day break apart or crash. Suggesting flat acrylic paintings, Yesh’s illustrations are actually created using digital media. Though not realistic in style, their brilliant colors on dark backgrounds make them eye-catching, often glowing, and sometimes action-filled, as in a depiction of Neptune’s moons racing in different directions. Loewen suggests a simple science project to demonstrate the effects of surface atmosphere on the apparent brightness of a planet. Includes a glossary, a short bibliography of children’s books about the planet, and a few more Neptune facts, such as that Voyager 2 photographed a dark spot on Neptune that has since disappeared. This lively series should be fun for budding astronomers; who knows, it might also inspire some planetary poetry or astronomical art. 2008, Picture Window, $25.26. Ages 7 to 10. Reviewer: Barbara L. Talcroft (Children's Literature).
ISBN: 978-1-4048-3955-7
ISBN: 1-4048-3955-0
ISBN: 978-1-4048-3964-9
ISBN: 1-4048-3964-X
Gas Giants: Huge Far Off Worlds
David Jefferis
Our solar system is composed of eight planets, four of which have no solid surface but are made up entirely of gas. This book introduces us to two of those gas giants; Uranus and Neptune. Part of the "Exploring Our Solar System" series from Crabtree Publishing, young readers will quickly be pulled in by the wealth of information presented in a simple question and answer format. Each two-page spread deals with a major focus question, and three or four follow-ups. Readers will learn such facts as how telescopes work, what caused the poles of Uranus to tilt so far, and why Neptune is hotter than Uranus. Also included are "Wow" spots; snippets of additional information presented in red or purple shaded circles. These, along with the full-color photographs and graphics accompanying the text, make this work visually appealing as well as information packed. Complete with a detailed table of contents, glossary, index and table of statistical facts and figures, this book is a welcome addition to upper elementary and early middle school science classroom and library bookshelves. 2009, Crabtree Publishing Company, $26.60 and $8.95. Ages 9 to 12. Reviewer: Pat Trattles (Children's Literature).
ISBN: 978-0-7787-3750-6
ISBN: 0-7787-3750-0
ISBN: 978-0-7787-3734-6
ISBN: 0-7787-3734-9
Hot Planets: Mercury and Venus
David Jefferis
Because they are the two planets closest to the sun, Mercury and Venus are sometimes referred to as the hot planets. They are so hot that if you ever went there, you would be fried to a crisp within minutes of landing. Part of the "Exploring Our Solar System" series from Crabtree Publishing, these facts as well as many others are presented in a simple question and answer format that will quickly pull young readers in, enticing them to learn more about our fascinating solar system. Each two-page spread deals with a major focus question and three or four follow-ups. Readers will learn why Venus is called the "Hell Planet," whether Mercury and Venus have moons, and what is a good way to spot a planet. Also included are "Wow" spots, snippets of additional information presented in red or purple shaded circles. One "Wow" spot, for example, states: "Wow! Venus has lots of volcanoes, but they are not the solar system’s biggest. Olympus Mons on Mars is three times higher than anything on Venus." These colorful "Wow" spots, along with the full-color photographs and graphics accompanying the text, make this work visually appealing as well as information packed. Complete with a detailed table of contents, glossary, index and table of statistical facts and figures, this book is a welcome addition to upper elementary and early middle school science classroom and library bookshelves. 2009, Crabtree Publishing Company, $26.60 and $8.95. Ages 9 to 12. Reviewer: Pat Trattles (Children's Literature).
ISBN: 978-0-7787-3751-3
ISBN: 0-7787-3751-9
ISBN: 978-0-7787-3735-3
ISBN: 0-7787-3735-7
Ice Dwarfs: Pluto and Beyond
David Jefferis
Exploring our Solar System is a four volume set with a targeted audience of upper elementary to junior high school. In each text, space and the planets come to life through easy to read text with eye catching headlines, coloured photos, diagrams, factual cutouts and easy to read text. The information is extremely well-organized and permits for easy navigation throughout the pages. In addition, difficult or unfamiliar terms are bolded and information is provided to extend the readers knowledge of the material. Readers would come away from this fantastic series with extensive knowledge of the world beyond Earth. To further aid in reading, each volume includes an index, a glossary, and facts and figures are presented. For those that are interested in further research, websites pertaining to these planets are presented. Regarding the volume Ice Dwarfs. Ice dwarfs are space objects orbiting in the outer solar system. Objects that orbit the Sun beyond the planet Neptune are called Trans-Neptunian Objects or TNOs. There are many different kinds of TNOs. There are also Ice Dwarfs or plutiods, Kuipers Belts (KBOs), Scattered Disk Objects (SDOs) and Oort Cloud Objects (OCOs). Did you know that these objects are labeled according to their distance from the Sun This fact filled text also explores what lies beyond the planets, the appearance of the space zone, the distance of Pluto from the Sun, and the size of the ice dwarf Eris. This text also explains what a comet is, where they come from, what its surface looks like. Category: Non-Fiction Grades 7-12. Thematic Links: Science and Technology; Solar System; Planets. Resource Links Rating: E (Excellent, enduring, everyone should see it!), Gr. 5-9. 2009, Crabtree Publishing, 32p. Illus., Hdbk. $20.76 ea. Ages 10 to 15. Reviewer: Anne Hatcher (Resource Links, February 2009 (Vol. 14, No. 3)).
ISBN: 978-0-7787-3752-0
ISBN: 0-7787-3752-7
ISBN: 978-0-7787-3736-0
ISBN: 0-7787-3736-5
Jupiter
Robin Birch
Originally published in Australia, this "New Solar System" series delivers the latest astronomical news through 2008, illustrations on every page, and lots of statistics. In five or six brief chapters, young scientists will learn about the planets and the space exploration that provided the information. An attractive extra is a short explanation and illustration of Greek or Roman deities associated with the planets; in Jupiter, the king of gods is shown hurling his thunderbolts. Budding astronomers will discover that this huge planet could always be seen from Earth, though Galileo identified its four largest moons (using a telescope) only in 1610. Another chapter explores Jupiter’s fast rotation and gassy atmosphere, as well as its stormy bands of clouds and strong magnetic field. "Moons and Rings" describes in detail the four principal moons with their Greek names, Io, Europa, Ganymede, and distant Callisto (whose orbiting distance, erroneously stated, should be 1,170,000 miles); readers may not know that Jupiter has over 63 moons and faint rings made of rock dust. For those intrigued by space exploration, the author explains that Voyager probes studied the Great Red Spot, discovered Jupiter’s rings and three small inner moons, while Galileo’s orbiter beamed information until 2003. Clear, no-nonsense text moves along briskly, while illustrations in saturated colors on dark backgrounds are eye-catching. Further help includes a "Jupiter Fact Summary," a glossary, and a list of websites. 2008 (orig. 2004), Chelsea Clubhouse/Chelsea House, Ages 8 to 11, $23.00. Reviewer: Barbara L. Talcroft (Children’s Literature).
ISBN: 978-1-60413-212-0
Jupiter and Saturn
Rosalind Mist
The first two pages provide a definition and overview of the Solar System. A drawing shows the size of the planets "roughly to scale, but the distances between them are not to scale." Browsing readers can look for the eye-catching star facts that are found throughout the book. The book is written in clear, simple sentences. Readers will learn about the composition of the largest planet, its moons and the stormy weather on both Jupiter and Saturn. The author does a fine job explaining Saturn’s rings. There are a few experiments for readers. Readers can see what the Cassini-Huygens space probe looks like and how it has helped scientists learn more about Saturn. The photos are clear and interesting. A Glossary and index are also included. The final page contains notes for parents and teachers offering further information and an experiment. A mix of drawing and photographs in this twenty-four page book will help both browsers and students working on assignments. Sidebars are distinguished from the main text by print size. This is part of the "QEB Solar System" series which, taken as a whole, provides a good introduction for young readers to the sun, planets, moons, meteors, asteroids and comets. 2008, QEB Publishing, Ages 8 to 10, $24.25, $16.95. Reviewer: Sharon Salluzzo
ISBN: 978-1-59566-581-2
The Largest Planet: Jupiter
Nancy Loewen
Illustrated by Jeff Yesh
With its large square pages and poster-bright pictures, the "Amazing Science: Planet" series is designed to have maximum visual appeal for young space explorers. It largely succeeds, presenting quite a bit of information about each planet in nine double-page spreads (liberally sprinkled with "Fun Facts" boxes) that show sizes, composition, surfaces, orbits, rotations, and something about each planet’s exploration. Readers are introduced to mighty Jupiter through the name it shares with the king of Roman gods. Pictures and text explain Jupiter’s brightness, its speedy rotation, its gassy composition, and its moving bands of clouds. While this huge planet is famous for its readily-visible red spot, readers will learn that Jupiter also has four large moons and about sixty smaller ones (an asteroid belt circles between Jupiter and Mars). Suggesting flat acrylic paintings, Yesh’s illustrations are actually created through digital media. Though not realistic in style, their brilliant colors on dark backgrounds make them eye-catching, often glowing, and sometimes action-filled; especially striking here is an illustration of Jupiter’s four large moons shown with Galileo, their discoverer. Loewen suggests a simple science/math project in which students draw overlapping circles to compare the diameters of the planets. Includes a glossary, a short bibliography of children’s books about the planet, and a few more Jupiter facts, such as that its Great Red Spot was discovered in 1664. This lively series should be fun for budding astronomers; who knows, it might inspire some planetary poetry or astronomical art. 2008, Picture Window, $25.26. Ages 7 to 10. Reviewer: Barbara L. Talcroft (Children's Literature).
ISBN: 978-1-4048-3952-6
ISBN: 978-1-4048-3961-8
ISBN: 1-4048-3961-5
A Look at Earth
Mary R. Dunn
Astronomy Now! is a series of books that are updated to include all planets and dwarf planets in our solar system. Each book in the series focuses on one planet and its history. Topics include how it was discovered and named and current conditions of the planet. Satellite images along with computer-generated pictures make the text easy to understand. Although Web sites are not included to support the text, the publisher has included its own site, which it claims will be kept current for research purposes. Lower level science teachers will enjoy this new series. Recommended. 2008, PowerKids Press (Rosen Publishing Group), 24pp. ea., $21.25 ea. lb.. Ages 7 to 11. Reviewer: Kaylia Thomas (Library Media Connection, February 2008).
ISBN: 978-1-4042-3827-5
ISBN: 1-4042-3827-1
Max Goes to Jupiter: A Science Adventure with Max the Dog (Science Adventures with Max the Dog series)
Jeffrey Bennett, Nick Schneider and Erica Ellingson
The newest book in the series of science adventures with the dog Max and his friends covers the topic of Jupiter. The "king of the planets" is named for Zeus, the mythical king of the gods. Jupiter is often very bright in the sky--along with the Moon and Venus--and it is more massive than all of the other planets combined. Max takes a fascinating space journey with Commander Grant (one of the "Lost Boys of Sudan"), Captain Anousheh (the first astronaut of Iranian heritage), and other young friends. A great deal of information is presented in this readable text, including information about the moons of Jupiter. The auther even includes details about the findings Galileo made using a telescope he built in 1609. The book also challenges students to consider possibilities that we can only dream of, such as the space elevator on which this lively crew begins their journey. Background information found in the "Big Kid Boxes" on the sides of the pages explains and details the science behind each large, colorful, two-page illustration. A message of hope is also conveyed in the book, which is aimed at readers who need to understand that taking care of our planet Earth is a worthwhile task. Included is a useful description of how youngsters can use binoculars to repeat Galileo's discovery of Jupiter's moons. Young students to adults will be fascinated by this informative book about Jupiter and its moons. Grades 1-8. 2008, Big Kid Science, 32p, $16.95. Ages 6 to 14. Reviewer: Martha Svatek (National Science Teachers Association (NSTA)).
ISBN: 0-9721-8193-8
ISBN: 978-0-9721-8193-8
Mercury
Robin Birch
Originally published in Australia, this "New Solar System" series delivers the latest astronomical news through 2008, illustrations on every page, and lots of statistics. In five or six brief chapters, young scientists will learn about the planets and other heavenly bodies and the space exploration that provided the information. An attractive extra is a short explanation and illustration of Greek or Roman deities associated with the planets. In Mercury (pictured with wings on his heels and staff), readers are introduced to our solar system, while another chapter explores the smallest planet’s revolution and rotation, extreme temperatures, atmosphere, and magnetic field. "Surface Features" shows photos of Mercury’s craters, hollows, ridges, and flat plains; budding astronomers may not know that the craters are named for world artists like Beethoven, Vivaldi, Homer and Matisse or that scientists think there may be ice at Mercury’s north pole. For those intrigued by space exploration, the author points out that Mercury is too close to the sun to be photographed by the Hubble Telescope, but many close-ups were taken by space probe Mariner 10 in 1974–75. (The MESSENGER probe will begin orbiting Mercury in 2011.) Clear, no-nonsense text moves along briskly, while illustrations (mostly in saturated colors on black backgrounds) are eye-catching; some pages with black-and-white photos and bordered in somber black or midnight blue seem less appealing. Further help includes a "Mercury Fact Summary," a glossary, and a list of websites. 2008 (orig. 2004), Chelsea Clubhouse/Chelsea House, Ages 8 to 11, $23.00. Reviewer: Barbara L. Talcroft (Children’s Literature).
ISBN: 978-1-60413-208-3
Mercury and Venus
Rosalind Mist
The first two pages provide a definition and overview of the Solar System. A drawing shows the size of the planets "roughly to scale, but the distances between them are not to scale." Browsing readers can look for the eye-catching star facts that are found throughout the book. Clear, simple sentences offer physical descriptions of Mercury and Venus. Readers will learn what makes Mercury so unusual. Transits are explained and readers are notified that the next transit of Venus, when it will move between the Sun and Earth, will occur June 5 to 6, 2012. There are a few experiments for readers. Readers can see what the Magellan probe looks like. The photos are clear and interesting. A Glossary and index are also included. The final page contains notes for parents and teachers offering further information and an experiment. A mix of drawing and photographs in this twenty-four page book will help both browsers and students working on assignments. Sidebars are distinguished from the main text by print size. This is part of the "QEB Solar System" series which, taken as a whole, provides a good introduction for young readers to the sun, planets, moons, meteors, asteroids and comets. 2008, QEB Publishing, Ages 8 to 10, $24.25, $16.95. Reviewer: Sharon Salluzzo
ISBN: 978-1-59566-579-9
Mighty Megaplanets: Jupiter and Saturn
David Jefferis
Jupiter and Saturn are the biggest planets in our solar system. In fact, Jupiter, the larger of the two, is bigger than all the other planets put together. These facts, as well as many others, are presented in a simple question and answer format that will quickly pull young readers in, enticing them to learn more about space in this installment of the "Exploring Our Solar System" series from Crabtree Publishing. Each two-page spread deals with a main focus question, and three or four follow-ups. Readers will learn such facts as what Jupiter and Saturn are made of, how they formed, and what lies under Jupiter’s cloud tops. Also included are "Wow" spots; snippets of additional information presented in red or purple shaded circles. The information contained therein, (such as, Jupiter takes 11.9 Earth years to orbit the sun, while Saturn takes 29.5 years,) is designed to cause the reader to marvel and say "Wow." These colorful "Wow" spots, along with full-color photographs and graphics accompanying the text, make this presentation visually appealing as well as information packed. Complete with a detailed table of contents, index, glossary and table of statistical facts and figures, this work is a welcome addition to upper elementary and lower middle school science classroom and library bookshelves. 2009, Crabtree Publishing Company, $26.60 and $8.95. Ages 9 to 12. Reviewer: Pat Trattles (Children's Literature).
ISBN: 978-0-7787-3753-7
ISBN: 0-7787-3753-5
ISBN: 978-0-7787-3737-7
ISBN: 0-7787-3737-3
Nearest to the Sun: The Planet Mercury
Nancy Loewen
Illustrated by Jeff Yesh
With its large square pages and poster-bright pictures, the "Amazing Science: Planet" series is designed to have maximum visual appeal for young space explorers. It largely succeeds, presenting quite a bit of information about each planet in nine double-page spreads (liberally sprinkled with "Fun Facts" boxes) that show sizes, composition, surfaces, orbits, rotations, and something about each planet’s exploration. Readers are introduced to Mercury through an imaginary sunrise on that planet. The sunrise is very erratic because it is so close to the sun. Through both pictures and text, the book explains Mercury’s slow rotation and fast orbit, its extraordinary range of temperatures, and its deeply cratered surface. While this smallest planet is hard to observe because of its position, kids will learn that one spacecraft flew by it in the 1970s and a new one, MESSENGER, is scheduled to orbit it in 2011. Suggesting flat acrylic paintings, Yesh’s illustrations are actually created through digital media. Though not realistic in style, their brilliant colors on dark backgrounds make them eye-catching, often glowing, and sometimes action-filled, as in a depiction of Mercury’s huge Caloris Basin being formed. Loewen provides directions for a simple science project that involves making craters by using a rubber ball and trays of sand or flour. Included are a glossary, a short bibliography of children’s books about the planet, and a few more facts about Mercury, such as that it does not have any moons. This lively series should be fun for budding astronomers; who knows, it might even inspire some planetary poetry or astronomical art. 2008, Picture Window, $25.26. Ages 7 to 10. Reviewer: Barbara L. Talcroft (Children's Literature).
ISBN: 978-1-4048-3954-0
ISBN: 1-4048-3954-2
ISBN: 978-1-4048-3963-2
ISBN: 1-4048-3963-1
Neptune
Robin Birch
Originally published in Australia, this "New Solar System" series delivers the latest astronomical news through 2008, illustrations on every page, and lots of statistics. In five or six brief chapters, young scientists will learn about the planets and other heavenly bodies and space exploration that provided the information. An attractive extra is a short explanation and illustration of Greek or Roman deities associated with the planets. In Neptune (the planet’s namesake, Roman god of the sea, is shown as a metal sculpture), readers will discover that this gas-giant planet is heavier, though smaller, than Uranus and revolves more speedily. Neptune’s atmosphere contains hydrogen, helium, and methane (which may give the planet its bright blue color), long, thin clouds, fast winds, and hurricanes. A "Rings and Moons" chapter describes Neptune’s cloudy rings and thirteen moons, of which Titan is the only large one; budding astronomers may not know that three smaller moons are named for mythical sea creatures: Triton, Proteus, and Nereid (shown riding a seahorse on an ancient Greek buckle). For those intrigued by space exploration, the author explains that Neptune has been photographed by the Hubble Space Telescope and visited by space probe Voyager 2, which will send back information until 2030. Clear, no-nonsense text moves along briskly, while illustrations (mostly in saturated colors on dark backgrounds) are eye-catching. Further help includes a "Neptune Fact Summary," a glossary, and a list of websites. 2008 (orig. 2004), Chelsea Clubhouse/Chelsea House, Ages 8 to 11, $23.00. Reviewer: Barbara L. Talcroft (children’s Literature)
ISBN: 978-1-60413-215-1
Our Home Planet: Earth
Nancy Loewen
With its large square pages and poster-bright pictures, the "Amazing Science: Planet" series is designed to have maximum visual appeal for young space explorers. It largely succeeds, presenting quite a bit of information about each planet in nine double-page spreads (liberally sprinkled with "Fun Facts" boxes) that show sizes, composition, surfaces, orbits, rotations, and something about each planet’s exploration. Readers are introduced to Earth as a "beautiful marble" seen from outer space, with an abundance of water and life-supporting temperatures. Through both pictures and text, the book explains Earth’s blanket of gases, the tilt of its axis, and its changing surface, erupting volcanoes, and shifting plates. Kids will learn that our moon orbits Earth, kept in place by gravity, while the moon’s gravity causes the Earth’s ocean tides. Suggesting flat acrylic paintings, Yesh’s illustrations are actually created with digital media. Though not realistic in style, their brilliant colors on dark backgrounds make them eye-catching, often glowing, as in a depiction of a father and daughter viewing a full moon and planets from their backyard. Loewen provides directions for a simple science/art project that involves making a circular collage from photos of colorful life on Earth, then mounting it on dark blue paper. Included are a glossary, a short bibliography of children’s books about the planet, and a few more Earth facts, such as that we experience both solar and lunar eclipses. This lively series should be fun for budding astronomers; who knows, it might inspire some planetary poetry or astronomical art. 2008, Picture Window, $25.26. Ages 7 to 10. Reviewer: Barbara L. Talcroft (Children's Literature).
ISBN: 978-1-4048-3951-9
ISBN: 978-1-4048-3960-1
ISBN: 1-4048-3951-8
ISBN: 1-4048-3960-7
The Planets
Gail Gibbons
The clear informative text and appealing illustrations are sure to keep the attention of young readers. They will be drawn in by the pictures of two kids who, along with their parents and friendly looking pooch, are looking up at the stars and planets. Then the readers will find much to learn, beginning with the fact that "The word planet comes from the Greek work meaning ‘wanderer." The difference between a planet and a star is explained and the number of known planets in our solar system is given. The facts about each planet are presented individually and in a manner easy for readers to grasp, and each planet is shown in illustration. The solar system is also illustrated and the need for a telescope to see some of the planets is explained. Additional information about all the planets is given at the back of the book. This is an excellent aid to young students in understanding the solar system and the planets. 2008 (orig. 1993), Holiday House, $17.95. Ages 4 to 8. Reviewer: Carolyn Mott Ford (Children's Literature).
ISBN: 978-0-8234-2156-5
ISBN: 978-0-8234-2157-2
ISBN: 0-8234-2156-2
ISBN: 0-8234-2157-0
The Planets
Martha E.H. Rustad
This book gives young readers an introduction to the celestial bodies that make up the earth’s solar system, including the eight planets, the three dwarf planets, the asteroid belt, and a multitude of comets. The book also covers the basics of planet classification, explaining the differences between gaseous and rocky planets and the relation of planets to the sun. Colorful pictures and illustrations that are as engaging as they are diverse reinforce the accompanying text on each page. The small book size is perfect for the smaller hands of its young readers. Part of the "Out in Space" series, this book contains a glossary of new words, an index, a list of additional book sources for interested readers, and an address for accessing the publisher’s online search engine. Like all of the books in this series, it is easy to read. Simple sentences make this book a great selection for young students learning about planets for the first time. 2009, Pebble/Capstone Press, $17.26. Ages 4 to 7. Reviewer: Jamie Hain (Children's Literature).
ISBN: 978-1-4296-1719-2
ISBN: 1-4296-1719-5
ISBN: 978-1-4296-2814-3
ISBN: 1-4296-2814-6
Ringed Giant: The Planet Saturn
Nancy Loewen
Illustrated by Jeff Yesh
With its large square pages and poster-bright pictures, the "Amazing Science: Planet" series is designed to have maximum visual appeal for young space explorers. It largely succeeds, presenting quite a bit of information about each planet in nine double-page spreads (liberally sprinkled with "Fun Facts" boxes) that show sizes, composition, surfaces, orbits, rotations, and something about each planet’s exploration. Readers are introduced to Saturn as if a viewing it through Galileo’s telescope of 1610 (Galileo thought Saturn had ears). Through pictures and text, the book explains the discovery of Saturn’s rings in 1659, the lightweight planet’s layers of hydrogen gas, its exceptionally strong winds, and its short days in contrast to an orbit of 29 years. Kids will learn that, in addition to its famous rings of rock and ice, Saturn is accompanied by at least 56 moons. Suggesting flat acrylic paintings, Yesh’s illustrations are actually created with digital media. Though not realistic in style, their brilliant colors on dark backgrounds make them eye-catching, often glowing, and sometimes action-filled, as in a depiction of the Cassini-Huygens spacecraft orbiting Saturn, as it has since 2004. Loewen suggests a simple science project that demonstrates density with crumpled newspaper in a box. Includes a glossary, a short bibliography of children’s books about the planet, and a few more Saturn facts, such as that its gravity is similar to Earth’s. This lively series should be fun for budding astronomers; who knows, it might inspire some planetary poetry or astronomical art. 2008, Picture Window, $25.26. Ages 7 to 10. Reviewer: Barbara L. Talcroft (Children's Literature).
ISBN: 978-1-4048-3956-4
ISBN: 1-4048-3956-9
ISBN: 978-1-4048-3965-6
ISBN: 1-4048-3965-8
Saturn
Robin Birch
Originally published in Australia, this "New Solar System" series delivers the latest astronomical news through 2008, illustrations on every page, and lots of statistics. In five or six brief chapters, young scientists will learn about the planets and other heavenly bodies and the space exploration that provided the information. An attractive extra is a short explanation and illustration of Greek or Roman deities associated with the planets—in Saturn, the ancient god is shown riding a chariot pulled by a fiery dragon. Readers will discover that Saturn’s tilted axis gives it seasons, while its atmosphere of hydrogen and helium makes it a "gas giant." (A sidebar explains that Saturn has such a low density it could float on water.) A "Moons and Rings" chapter is especially fascinating as it identifies Saturn’s rings, designated with letters from A to G; Saturn has at least 56 frozen moons, of which only 35 have been given Greek names like Tethys, Dione, and Iapetus. For those intrigued by space exploration, the author points out that this information was gathered by Voyager probes and the Hubble Space Telescope, while the Cassini probe has been orbiting Saturn since 2004, sending a further probe to the giant moon, Titan. Clear, no-nonsense text moves along briskly, while illustrations (mostly in saturated colors on dark backgrounds) are eye-catching. Further help includes a "Saturn Fact Summary," a glossary, and a list of websites. 2008 (orig. 2004), Chelsea Clubhouse/Chelsea House, Ages 8 to 11, $23.00. Reviewer: Barbara L. Talcroft (Children’s Literature).
ISBN: 978-1-60413-213-7
Seeing Red: The Planet Mars
Nancy Loewen
Illustrated by Jeff Yesh
With its large square pages and poster-bright pictures, the "Amazing Science: Planet" series is designed to have maximum visual appeal for young space explorers. It largely succeeds, presenting quite a bit of information about each planet in nine double-page spreads (liberally sprinkled with "Fun Facts" boxes) that show sizes, composition, surfaces, orbits, rotations, and something about each planet’s exploration. Readers are introduced to Mars through its blood-red color, which caused it to be named after the Roman god of war. Through both pictures and text, the book explains Mars’s small size and icy temperatures, its tilted axis, and its valleys, mountains, and plains. Kids can chuckle at one girl’s idea of green Martians and enjoy an excited Percival Lowell looking through his telescope and imagining man-made "canals" on Mars. Suggesting flat acrylic paintings, Yesh’s illustrations are actually created with digital media. Though not realistic in style, their brilliant colors on dark backgrounds make them eye-catching, often glowing, and sometimes action-filled, as in a depiction of Mars’s two moons racing around their planet. Loewen provides directions for a simple science project in which students, with the help of friends and a stopwatch, dance the orbits of Mars and its moons. Includes a glossary, a short bibliography of children’s books about the planet, and a few more Mars facts, such as that dozens of spacecraft have had problems on Mars: is there a "Martian Curse?" This lively series should be fun for budding astronomers; who knows, it might inspire some planetary poetry or astronomical art. 2008, Picture Window, $25.26. Ages 7 to 10. Reviewer: Barbara L. Talcroft (Children's Literature).
ISBN: 978-1-4048-3953-3
ISBN: 1-4048-3953-4
ISBN: 978-1-4048-3962-5
ISBN: 1-4048-3962-3
The Sideways Planet: Uranus
Nancy Loewen
Illustrated by Jeff Yesh
With its large square pages and poster-bright pictures, the "Amazing Science: Planet" series is designed to have maximum visual appeal for young space explorers. It largely succeeds, presenting quite a bit of information about each planet in nine double-page spreads (liberally sprinkled with "Fun Facts" boxes) that show sizes, composition, surfaces, orbits, rotations, and something about each planet’s exploration. Readers are introduced to Uranus as if viewing it through William Herschel’s telescope in 1781 (he first thought it was a comet). Through pictures and text, the book explains Uranus’ huge size, its tightly compressed gases, unique sideways tilt, and extremely long year. Kids will learn that blue-green Uranus, like the other gas giants, has rings of dust, rock, and ice, as well as 27 moons. Suggesting flat acrylic paintings, Yesh’s illustrations are actually created with digital media. Though not realistic in style, their brilliant colors on dark backgrounds make them eye-catching, often glowing, and sometimes action-filled, as in a depiction of a planet-sized object slamming into Uranus and knocking it sideways. Loewen suggests a simple science project that indicates the immense size of our solar system using balls and a large open space. Included are a glossary, a short bibliography of children’s books about the planet, and a few more Uranus facts, such as that only one spacecraft has ever approached Uranus (Voyager 2 in 1986). This lively series should be fun for budding astronomers; who knows, it might inspire some planetary poetry or astronomical art. 2008, Picture Window, $25.26. Ages 7 to 10. Reviewer: Barbara L. Talcroft (Children's Literature).
ISBN: 978-1-4048-3957-1
ISBN: 1-4048-3957-7
ISBN: 978-1-4048-3966-3
ISBN: 1-4048-3966-6
Solar System
Carmen Bredeson
This attractive book from the "I Like Space" series contains tons of information about our solar system. The format consists of 14 two-page spreads, and each spread covers a different question. The opening spread answers the question, "What is the solar system?" and the final spread provides answers about "Who studies the solar system?" Chapters present information about planets, asteroids, rings, meteorites and more. Fun facts are scattered throughout and cover topics such as how long it would take a spaceship to get to Pluto. A plus for the book is that it has a short glossary page right at the beginning of the book in order to give students information about certain words before they tackle the text. Attention-grabbing illustrations are bright and have cartoon-character astronauts who help impart the information. In addition, realistic illustrations of the planets add to the basic text. Of special interest is a middle spread that compares planet size to the sun by using a basketball for a scale. This excellent book will supplement science lessons and contains everything students need to write a good report about the solar system. It would be a welcome addition to all classrooms serving grades K-3 or 4. 2008, Enslow Elementary/Enslow Publishers, $22.60. Ages 6 to 9. Reviewer: Nancy Garhan Attebury (Children's Literature).
ISBN: 978-0-7660-2944-6
ISBN: 0-7660-2944-1
The Solar System
Brian Williams and Vicky Egan
Illustrations by Fiammetta Dogi, Antonella Pastorelli and Studio Stalio
The Solar System begins with a double-page view of eight planets orbiting the sun and goes on to present information about the Sun as a star; the book then gives each planet a pictorial spread of its own, including statistics on size, composition, distance from the sun, speed of travel, and space probes that have explored each. Dark blue Neptune, for example, looms in an upper corner, while smaller drawings show the Great Dark Spot, eruptions on Triton (a moon), and a close-up of the planet taken from Voyager 2. "Comets and Asteroids" explains those bodies--especially interesting is an account of a comet that crashed into Jupiter in 1994. Another spread presents information and drawings of bodies at the edge of the solar system, including dwarf planets like Pluto circling in the Kuiper Belt, and the Oort Cloud, containing billions of frozen comets. Text, while brief, is clear, easy to read, and full of interesting tidbits, though in a crowded market of space books, the chief attraction of this volume lies in its large, eye-catching pictures. Included are a table of contents and an index. 2008, McRae Books, $27.10. Ages 8 up. Reviewer: Barbara L. Talcroft (Children's Literature).
ISBN: 978-8-8609-8049-6
Sun and Moon
Rosalind Mist
The first two pages provide a definition and overview of the Solar System. A drawing shows the size of the planets "roughly to scale, but the distances between them are not to scale." Browsing readers can look for the eye-catching star facts that are found throughout the book. The book is written in clear, simple sentences. The author explains the importance of sunlight, what happens during an eclipse, and how heat and light are produced. There is a close-up photograph of the surface of the moon, and an explanation of the phases of the moon. There are a few experiments for readers. Readers can see what a lunar rover looks like and will learn about the famous Apollo 11 mission in 1969. The photos are clear and interesting. A Glossary and index are also included. The final page contains notes for parents and teachers offering further information and an experiment. A mix of drawing and photographs in this twenty-four page book will help both browsers and students working on assignments. Sidebars are distinguished from the main text by print size. This is part of the "QEB Solar System" series which, taken as a whole, provides a good introduction for young readers to the sun, planets, moons, meteors, asteroids and comets. 2008, QEB Publishing, Ages 8 to 10, $24.25, $16.95. Reviewer: Sharon Salluzzo
ISBN: 978-1-59566-578-2
Uranus
Robin Birch
Originally published in Australia, this "New Solar System" series delivers the latest astronomical news through 2008, illustrations on every page, and lots of statistics. In five or six brief chapters, young scientists will learn about the planets and other heavenly bodies and space exploration that provided the information. An attractive extra is a short explanation and illustration of Greek or Roman deities associated with the planets. In Uranus (the planet’s namesake is shown as the starry Greek sky god, father of Saturn), readers will discover that this heavy, gas-giant planet is lying on its side, which causes very unusual seasons. Another chapter explores Uranus’s atmosphere of hydrogen, helium, and methane (which gives the planet its blue-green color), its emission of ultraviolet light, and radio signals from its magnetic field. "Rings and Moons" describes Uranus’s thirteen rings and 27 moons with names like Ariel, Titania (discovered in 1787), and Oberon (most distant); budding astronomers may not know that some rings have small "shepherd" moons that help keep their particles in place. For those intrigued by space exploration, the author explains that Uranus has been photographed by the Hubble Space Telescope and visited by space probe Voyager 2, which will send back information until 2030. Clear, no-nonsense text moves along briskly, while illustrations (mostly in saturated colors on dark backgrounds) are eye-catching. Further help includes a "Uranus Fact Summary," a glossary, and a list of websites. 2008 (orig. 2004), Chelsea Clubhouse/Chelsea House, Ages 8 to 11, $23.00. Reviewer: Barbara L. Talcroft (Children’s Literature)
ISBN: 978-1-60413-214-4
Uranus
Fran Howard
Taking its place in the outer planets of the Milky Way galaxy and in this set of new titles in the "Buddy Books" planet series, Uranus stands out as the "Gas Giant." Equal attention is given to Uranus’s moons, rings, and gaseous surface. The "Fact Trek," a page devoted to interesting facts, will have mini scientists practicing their pronunciation of "YUR-uh-nuhs." Kids who have studied the seasons here on Earth will be interested to learn that each of Uranus’s seasons lasts about twenty years. They may, however, be disappointed to find no description of what the seasons are like. Past missions and future voyages to Uranus are briefly described. Readers with more questions are directed to the publisher’s "Book Links" page. Basic terms that young astronomers must know are highlighted in orange and defined in the glossary of important words. For another take at the same reading level, be sure to look at the planet titles in Teresa Wimmer’s "My First Look at Planets" series. 2007, ABDO, $24.21. Ages 5 to 7. Reviewer: Kristy Lyn Sutorius (Children's Literature).
ISBN: 978-1-5992-8829-1
ISBN: 1-5992-8829-X
Uranus, Neptune, and the Dwarf Planets
Rosalind Mist
The first two pages provide a definition and overview of the Solar System. A drawing shows the size of the planets "roughly to scale, but the distances between them are not to scale." Browsing readers can look for the eye-catching star facts that are found throughout the book. Clear, simple sentences present the discovery of Uranus and Neptune. For budding astronomers and astronauts, mention is made of Voyager 1 and Voyager 2 and the Hubble Space Telescope. There are a few experiments for readers. The author explains why Pluto is no longer considered a planet. The photos are clear and interesting. A Glossary and index are also included. The final page contains notes for parents and teachers offering further information. A mix of drawing and photographs in this twenty-four page book will help both browsers and students working on assignments. Sidebars are distinguished from the main text by print size. This is part of the "QEB Solar System" series which, as a whole, provides a good introduction for young readers to the sun, planets, moons, meteors, asteroids and comets. 2008, QEB Publishing, Ages 8 to 10, $24.25, $16.95. Reviewer: Sharon Salluzzo
ISBN: 978-1-59566-582-9
Venus
Robin Birch
Originally published in Australia, this "New Solar System" series delivers the latest astronomical news through 2008, illustrations on every page, and lots of statistics. In five or six brief chapters, young scientists will learn about the planets and other heavenly bodies and the space exploration that provided the information. An attractive extra is a short explanation and illustration of Greek or Roman deities associated with the planets. In Venus (the planet’s namesake is pictured in Botticelli’s gorgeous painting), readers will learn that this bright, beautiful planet is the morning and evening star, while another chapter explores its revolution and slow rotation, phases, extremely hot temperature, and thick, cloudy atmosphere. "Surface Features" describes Venus’s great terrae, craters, calderas, and pancake domes; budding astronomers may not know that Venus has no water, but many ancient volcanoes, a few of which may be active. For those intrigued by space exploration, the author explains that the dense atmosphere makes observation by telescope impossible, but that Venus has been reached by more than twenty space probes, including Pioneers 12 and 13, Magellan, and Venus Express in 2006. Clear, no-nonsense text moves along briskly, while illustrations (mostly in saturated colors on dark backgrounds) are eye-catching; some pages with black-and-white photos and bordered in somber black or midnight blue seem less appealing. Further help includes a "Venus Fact Summary," a glossary, and a list of websites. 2008 (orig. 2004), Chelsea Clubhouse/Chelsea House, Ages 8 to 11, $23.00. Reviewer: Barbara L. Talcroft (Children's Literature).
ISBN: 978-1-60413-209-0
What is the Solar System?
Carmen Bredeson
What is the Solar System? is a wonderful book to introduce the young reader to our neighborhood in space. This well-illustrated volume provides accurate information, fun facts, definitions, and a list of books and Web sites readers can go to for more information. Leading off with what might be a trick question to many-"How many planets are there?" (p. 8)-unlike some other texts, What is the Solar System? correctly states the status of Pluto as a dwarf planet. The scale of the solar system presented on page 13 is typical of the fun and easy-to-understand nature of the book. Statements such as "If the Sun were the size of an official basketball" are a great means for allowing the young reader to try to understand the size of the solar system. (I Like Space! Series.) Glossary; Index; C.I.P. Highly Recommended, Grades 1-2. 2008, Enslow, 32pp., $22.60. Ages 6 to 8. Reviewer: Thomas A. Lesser (Science Books and Films (Vol. 44, No. 5))
ISBN: 978-0-7660-2944-6
ISBN: 0-7660-2944-1
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Updated 06/26/09
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