Review: Rocket into Space!

10, 9, 8 . . . the countdown was on at the recent National Year of Reading Legacy Event, when Rocket into Space was launched into the stratosphere. This new publication from NLA Publishing, was penned by award-winning author and astrophysicist Ragbir Bhathal, who carries out research in astrophysics, physics education and Australian studies in science.

But don't let the impressive author stats deter you, carers of tots and miniature space lovers! Here is a book perfectly suited to the very young, and very space-obsessed.

Maddy and Jack are flying into space. Kids can travel right along with them by spinning wheels, lifting flaps, pulling tabs and ogling the superb detail to be found in our solar system.

From a tour of our eight planets to a scoot through the Milky Way (watch out for those comets!), kids will delight in this supersonic journey - learning amazing facts along the way.

What I love about this book is that it's visually and interactively ideal for the very young, yet it offers those added extras - fascinating and higher-level information for older sibs, parents, teachers and indeed, space explorers themselves - essentially allowing kids to grow with the book over time.

At the back of the book, kids can delight in making their own crater and planetary mobile. There are also other thought-provoking activities kids will love.

Another gorgeous, quality production from the NLA.

Title: Rocket into Space!
Author: Dr Ragbir Bhathal
Illustrator: Johanna Davids
Publisher: National Library of Australia, $19.95 RRP
Publication Date: 1 November 2012
Format: Hard cover
ISBN: 9780642277510
For ages: 3 - 8
Type: Picture Book, Pop-Up Book, Junior Non-Fiction