About This Book
A parent might reach for this book when their child begins asking big questions about the night sky, the moon, and what lies beyond our world. "Planets Around the Sun" serves as a perfect first guide to our solar system for young, curious minds. With breathtaking NASA photographs and clear, concise text, author Seymour Simon takes readers on a tour from the fiery Sun to the distant (and then-classified as a planet) Pluto. It focuses on sparking wonder and providing foundational knowledge, making abstract concepts feel real and awe-inspiring. This book is an excellent choice for nurturing a budding interest in science and astronomy in a way that is accessible and visually stunning, not overwhelming.
What Parents Should Know
Sensitive Topics
N/A. The book is a straightforward, secular presentation of scientific facts.
Ideal Reader
A 5- to 7-year-old who is starting to show a concrete interest in astronomy. This is for the child who points at the sky and asks specific questions, has an interest in non-fiction, and is captivated by realistic imagery more than cartoons. It is a perfect 'first' solar system book for a fact-oriented child.
Parent Prep
Parents should preview the section on Pluto (pages 28-29). The book was published in 2002 and includes Pluto as the ninth planet. This is a great opportunity for a conversation. A parent can explain, "When this book was made, we called Pluto a planet, but scientists have learned more and now they call it a 'dwarf planet.' Science is always learning new things!" This doesn't detract from the book's value and can be a valuable lesson in itself. A parent has heard their child say, "What's the moon made of?" or "Are there other planets like Earth?" or has seen them become fascinated by a movie or show featuring space travel. The child's curiosity about the universe has just been sparked.
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