Off to Space!

From the series “Off to Space!”, this easy nonfiction text packs quite a bit of information in each double-page spread. Succinctly pairing information with brilliant photographs that young readers are sure to linger over, the author succeeds in building an interest in her topic.

An introductory astronomy set for the youngest readers. Most spreads have between one and four simple sentences on one side and a full-page color photograph (or photorealistic constructed image) on the other. Occassionally the text begins to present concepts that are more complicated, such as the lunar cycle or supernovas, but is done without using any overly technical terms and is limited to the most basic explanation. The copyright page has a “teaching tips” section with suggested activities and questions for before, during, and after reading the book. A “fun facts” page containing three facts and a visual glossary with four-to-six entries on a single page is located toward the end of every title. Other back matter includes an index, “read more” and “learn more online” resources, and about the author sections. VERDICT An additional purchase for homeschooling collections and early elementary classrooms.