Customer Reviews
Not a typical children's book about the planets 
2002-03-07
Unlike many other books that focus on information about the specific entities that make up our solar system, this book expands that information in a unique way. In addition to limited information about the planets and the universe, and fairly extensive information about the sun, it includes information on the constellations, solar eclipses, telescopes, and the missions to the moon.
The information included presented in a way that makes this book appropriate for a wide age range of children. Its discussion of the sun is expanded to describe prominences, the meaning of light years and the Milky Way as well as our solar system's position in our galaxy.
The description of constellations is an overview only. The purpose of constellation is explained, but not how to find them.
The information on shooting stars, comets, solar eclipses and the phases of the moon are fairly detailed (for children). The illustrations for most of these are particularly good.
The pages covering telescopes which also covers several notable astronomers (Hipparchus, Newton & Galileo) are particularly good. Although the information is not extensive, it does cover enough detail to whet the appetite of a curious child.
The descriptions of the voyages to the moon are particularly good. The detail and words chosen are well done for young children, yet still convey the excitement of the events. Topics covered include the command module, rocket stages and even the path taken by Apollo 11 to the moon.
This sturdy board book has nice illustrations and excellent text. It's one my preschoolers request often and one that contains enough depth for them to learn more for years to come.
