'The best books, reviewed with insight and charm, but without compromise.'
- author Jackie French

Monday 4 March 2024

Review: Astronomy for Curious Kids

Astronomy for Curious Kids is the perfect book for ... curious kids, and adults.

It's packed with 128 pages of information, diagrams, and illustrations.

What is cosmic recycling? How did Australia's First Peoples use the stars? What are the different types of galaxies? How does dark matter work? Who was Henrietta Swan Leavitt and what did she discover?

These are just some of the questions that are answered in Astronomy for Curious Kids.

The book is divided into six chapters which lead from the basics of being an astronomer through astronomical history and discoveries, to all about stars, the Milky Way, and finally the story of the universe.

To be an astronomer you need to know about light pollution and night vision. You'll also discover what equipment can be used in conjunction with the night sky, and how to use a telescope and binoculars. There's even a simple explanation of how to measure angles in the sky using your hands.

The history of our night sky includes planets and constellations, technological advances, and how it was proven the earth is round not flat. Ptolemy, Copernicus, Kepler, and Galileo are just some of the famous names whose discoveries are mentioned. Did you know the first telescope used to observe the night sky is recorded as being used by Galileo in 1609?

Learn about the importance of radio waves, infrared, gamma rays, electromagnetic waves, and more. 

Information about exploring the solar system covers mapping the moon and phases of the moon, solar eclipses, and a raft of facts and figures about planets. You'll also learn about humans in space, from the moon, to Mars, and asteroid mining!

Illustrated by graphic artist Nik Neves, Astronomy for Curious Kids is written by Giles Sparrow who studied astronomy in London and is a Fellow of the Royal Astronomical Society. His knowledge and writing style is great for anyone interested in the night sky.

There is so much in Astronomy for Curious Kids. Dip in and out, and use it as a guide for your own astronomical adventures, big and small. A brilliant book for home or school.

Title: Astronomy for Curious Kids
Author: Giles Sparrow
Illustrator: Nik Neves
Publisher: CSIRO Publishing, $ 32.99
Publication Date: March 2024
Format: Hardcover
ISBN: 9781486318384
For ages:  7+
Type: Junior Non-Fiction