The 6 Best Children's Astronomy and Space Books
Book RaiderPeering up at the night sky, spotting one or two blinking stars (or are they planes?) and wondering what the great beyond holds beyond the atmosphere of our blue planet has been an age-long fascination for the young and old. In fact, it's arguably impossible not to feel a little twinge of awe and curiosity when you consider that we, earthlings, are just a tiny speck within an impossibly vast Cosmic Theatre. And for our young future astronauts and galaxy explorers, it's never too early to dive deep and go beyond the ordinary plane-spotting.
So, put on your imaginary space helmet, turn up the make-believe dial on your spaceship, and ready yourself for an interstellar journey from the comfort of your own couch. We have hand-picked some of the best children's books about astronomy and space that will inspire, educate, and fill their curious minds with wonders about the universe. Reading about space is the next best thing to space travel. Slightly less risky, and the snacks are heaps better. Now, let's countdown 10, 9, 8, 7...
The Astronaut Who Painted the Moon: The True Story of Alan Bean
by Dean Robbins
Why The Astronaut Who Painted the Moon: The True Story of Alan Bean is on this list: It's not just about outer space – it's about the people who've actually been there. This book combines astronomy with human interest in an inspiring and accessible way, perfect for curious young minds.
Engagingly written by Dean Robbins, the book chronicles the life of astronaut Alan Bean, the fourth person to walk on the moon's crusty gray surface, who later became a painter. Captivating illustrations and easy-to-understand text takes readers on a mesmerizing journey that unravels Bean's profound connection with the moon and how it influenced his artistic endeavors.
What readers like: Readers love the everyday-hero aspect of the story and how it relates to complex scientific concepts in a digestible way. The inspiring story is paired with vivid illustrations that truly capture Bean's awe-inspiring journey. It's a hit among kids and adults alike, who appreciate how it brings an artsy twist to the field of astronomy.
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100 Things to See in the Night Sky: From Planets and Satellites to Meteors and Constellations, Your Guide to Stargazing
by Dean Regas
Why 100 Things to See in the Night Sky: From Planets and Satellites to Meteors and Constellations, Your Guide to Stargazing is on this list: This book perfectly aligns with our quest to find the best children's book on astronomy and space because it simplifies complex celestial concepts into bite-sized, kid-friendly chunks. It's the perfect guide for kiddos who are constantly asking 'What's that in the night sky?'
In '100 Things to See in the Night Sky', Dean Regas makes the vast world of space a tangible and entertaining exploration for youngsters. The book offers practical tips for spotting, locating, and identifying a hundred different celestial objects, from the moon and planets to far away galaxies. Imagine using this guide on a camping trip to recognize constellations, or perhaps catching the the trail of a shooting star from your backyard.
What readers like: Parents and kiddos alike love the book because it's an easy-to-digest guide. It does an excellent job of explaining the wonders of the night sky and fostering a sense of awe and curiosity. Readers appreciate the practical tips the book offers and admire how it helps kids to fall in love with the universe. Plus, who doesn't enjoy a bit of bonding under the stars with their munchkins, right?
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A Black Hole is NOT a Hole
by Carolyn Cinami DeCristofano
Why A Black Hole is NOT a Hole is on this list: This gem perfectly fits our list because it's a fun and fascinating journey into the mysterious universe of black holes. The way it simplifies complex astronomical concepts for children is seriously impressive.
Don't let the title fool you. Yes, A Black Hole is NOT a Hole might sound like a cosmic comedic act, but it's a super helpful guide that magically unzips the complexities of black holes for our young budding astronomers. It's filled with captivating illustrations, exciting facts, and even real-life scientific studies, making it an enjoyable ride into the vast wonders of space.
What readers like: The kiddos are all in for this book, mainly for its easy-to-understand explanations and awesome visuals. They can't stop nattering about how much they've learnt about black holes — the space phenomenon, not an actual hole. Parents appreciate it too, as it gives them a way to answer tricky space questions without having to turn into overnight Einstein.
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The Space Race: The Journey to the Moon and Beyond
by Sarah Cruddas
Why The Space Race: The Journey to the Moon and Beyond is on this list: This is a terrific pick for children who are awestruck by the stars and enthralled by the idea of journeying beyond our planet. And also, let's admit, who wouldn't want to add a bit of a 'race' twist to space exploration?
The Space Race takes readers on an out-of-this-world journey, exploring the space race between the U.S. and Soviet Union. It is a complete chronicle of mankind's 'small step' onto the moon and our continued exploration beyond. The book is peppered with stunning images and first-hand accounts, making it a truly immersive space adventure.
What readers like: Young readers love the fact that this book isn't just a bunch of dry facts. The storytelling style and personal accounts make them feel like they are part of the space race. They get to explore the cosmos right from their comfy reading nooks. And let’s not forget about those mind-blowing pictures of outer space. Simply put, this book is a wild, fantastical adventure but in a, you know, highly educational sort of way.
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On a Beam of Light: A Story of Albert Einstein
by Jennifer Berne
Why On a Beam of Light: A Story of Albert Einstein is on this list: This imaginative book takes kids on a space-time journey alongside one of the greatest scientific minds, Albert Einstein. It's peppered with astronomy and space wonders, making it a perfect fit for our list.
Imagine riding a beam of light across the universe. That is what Albert Einstein did in his mind when he was just a boy, and it led him to some of the biggest discoveries in science. This inspired book fills young readers with wonder, and a thirst for knowledge and exploration of the universe.
What readers like: Kids adore this book's stunning illustrations and adults appreciate the clear, engaging explanation of Einstein's theories. It sparks curiosity in young minds and suggests that they too could grow up to revolutionize our understanding of the universe. Besides, who doesn't want to zoom around on a beam of light?
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Our Solar System
by Seymour Simon
Why Our Solar System is on this list: It's astronomy, it's space, it's for children...It's almost as if Seymour Simon wrote 'Our Solar System' knowing we'd need books to put on this list. He's got you covered with a big serving of the far-out yet down-home approach kids can't resist.
In 'Our Solar System', the fantastic world of space is brought to life by Seymour Simon who shines a light on the mysteries of the universe for those curious little minds. The book is crammed full of stunning photographs, interesting facts and friendly explanations about the wonders of our cosmic neighborhood. It's a captivating journey that will make you and your little ones feel like you've just had a casual stroll around Planet Mars.
What readers like: Readers love Simon's ability to transform complex cosmic concepts into simple language that kids can comprehend and enjoy. It's not only the striking imagery that gets them hooked, but it's also Simon's knack for making space exploration feel like a thrilling adventure rather than a dull science lesson.
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