Discover Science: Solar System: Solar System - Hardcover

Goldsmith, Dr. Mike

Hardcover

ISBN 10: 0753464470 ISBN 13: 9780753464472

Publisher: Kingfisher, 2010

Synopsis

Discover Science: Solar System by Mike Goldsmith is the perfect introduction for young readers to the endlessly fascinating topic of space and the vast, mysterious worlds that make up our solar system. Discover the activity of the flaming prominences of the sun and the bubbling volcanoes of Venus. Examine the apparently lifeless craters on the moon, Saturn's swirling rings, and giant Jupiter's great red spot. Marvel at space travelers such as the comet Halle-Bopp, mighty meteorites, and the Spirit and Viking space probes on their missions to Mars. Budding astronomers will be intrigued and enthralled by the strange and diverse worlds that make up our solar system.

About this title

About the Author

Dr. Mike Goldsmith studied the philosophy of time and space at Keele University in the U.K., where he received a PhD in astrophysics. Formerly the head of the U.K.’s National Physical Laboratory, he has written many nonfiction books for children, including Kingfisher’s Voyages: Space, and Kingfisher Young Knowledge: Solar System.

Reviews

With glossy color pages, abundant visuals, and descriptive prose, this Discover Science series title provides an accessible introduction to earth’s solar system. Printed in a large font, the text is well suited to newly independent readers’ abilities as it simply conveys concepts such as gravity (“a force that pulls things toward one another”) and occasionally uses familiar comparisons to aid comprehension: Mercury’s nights are “bitterly cold, much colder than any freezer.” The visual-laden pages feature a wide range of images, from stock photos to detailed renderings of planetary surfaces. The information is occasionally vague; a passage states that “Jupiter has many moons,” for example, rather than specifying a number. On the whole, though, this title offers a lively overview that will interest budding astronomers looking for personal reading choices. Also included are instructions for activities, such as a recipe for “Crazy Comets” treats. A glossary, notes for parents and teachers, suggested resources, and additional facts conclude. Grades 1-3. --Shelle Rosenfeld

Edition details

• Publisher: Kingfisher
• Publication date: 2010
• Language: English
• ISBN 10: 0753464470
• ISBN 13: 9780753464472
• Binding: Hardcover
• Number of pages: 56