Space

It’s appropriate that this heavily illustrated work’s table of contents is a colorful mix of photos of planets, equipment for astronomical observations, and diverse kids enjoying scientific exploration. The chapters listed there, such as “Shapes in the Stars,” “Space Rubble,” and “Looking for Life” are framed by an opening explanation of “How to Be a Real Scientist,” which, among other things, provides a useful sidebar explaining the scientific method. Each chapter spread outlines an activity (recreating the phases of the moon using paper and a flashlight, making an orrery, creating modeling clay meteorites—in easy, illustrated steps accompanied by sidebars encouraging young scientists to observe, predict, and record, and offering extra questions prompting them to think about how their creation works. A “Results and Answers” spread discusses what to look for in each activity, providing extra scientific background as well; it is followed by a useful annotated website listing. Browsers will be drawn to this attractive volume and will find engaging and informative material within.