Totality!: An Eclipse Guide in Rhyme and Science

Tens of millions of people came out to view the 2017 total solar eclipse, the first in the US in nearly four decades. Now we are approaching an even more exciting, back-to-back pair of US eclipses: an annular eclipse on Oct. 14, 2023 and a total solar eclipse on April 8, 2024. You won’t want to miss them, and there’s no better way to prepare than to use the free app “Totality by Big Kid Science” (expected to be downloaded and used by millions) and this new book written by the creator of that app, who is also the award-winning author of six books that have all been launched to the International Space Station for the Story Time From Space program (storytimefromspace.com). Totality! An Eclipse Guide in Rhyme and Science features a unique combination of rhyme and science that makes it suitable for a wide range of ages, as well as parents and teachers. The rhyme begins “Today’s the day, it’s final come / I’ll see a diamond on the Sun,” thereby engaging readers of all ages in imagining an eclipse experience. In addition, the rhyme has been pedagogically constructed to serve as a mnemonic device for the underlying science that is explained in detail with illustration and “Big Kid Box” sidebars. The book concludes with a glossary, suggested activities, and a one-page eclipse science summary — features that will add particular value for parents and teachers learning along with their students or kids.

Printed books come with two pairs of eclipse glasses (placed in an envelope inside the front cover), and instructions on their use, that will allow readers to view the eclipse safely.

Astrophysicist/educator Jeffrey Bennett is the author of numerous books, including college textbooks (in astronomy, astrobiology, mathematics, and statistics), books for the general public, and six previous books for children. All six children’s books have won numerous awards, including the American Institute of Physics Science Communication award. All six have also been read by astronauts aboard the International Space Station for the Story Time From Space program (storytimefromspace.com). More info at jeffreybennett.com.