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Mae C. Jemison
By Meeg Pincus, Illustrated by Elena Bia
Blast off into a reading adventure as you learn about the inspiring life of Mae Jemison―the first female African American astronaut. Follow along from her time as a child with big dreams to her exploration in space. This leveled book engages 1st―3rd graders through new vocabulary and high-interest topics like space exploration. 6-10 years
Mae Among the Stars
By Roda Ahmed, Illustrated by Stasia Burrington
When Little Mae was a child, she dreamed of dancing in space. She imagined herself surrounded by billions of stars, floating, gliding, and discovering.
She wanted to be an astronaut.
Her mom told her, “If you believe it, and work hard for it, anything is possible.”
Little Mae’s curiosity, intelligence, and determination, matched with her parents’ encouraging words, paved the way for her incredible success at NASA as the first African American woman to travel in space. 3-8 years
Mae Jemison (You Should Meet)
By Laurie Calkhoven, Illustrated by Monique Dong
Meet Mae Jemison, the first African-American female astronaut! Did you know before Mae was an astronaut, she went to medical school and joined the Peace Corps? But she never forgot her childhood dream to travel to outer space. So, in 1985, she applied to NASA’s astronaut training program. On September 12, 1992, Mae flew into space with six other astronauts aboard the space shuttle Endeavour and made history—just like you can if you follow your dreams! 6-8 years
Mae Jemison
By Jodie Shepherd
Meet Mae Jemison, the first African-American woman to travel to space. Mae was a bright child who was always fascinated by science. The top student and gifted dancer ignored naysayers and worked hard to achieve her dream of becoming a doctor and an astronaut. 6-8 years
Mae Jemison: A Kid’s Book About Reaching Your Dream
By Mary Nhin, Illustrated by Yuliia Zolotava
In the new Mini Movers and Shakers children’s book series comes a cast of characters who have failed, yet succeeded despite overwhelming obstacles. In the third volume, we meet Mae Jemison.
Find out what happens in this kid’s book about flying to space.
Sometimes, we are faced with challenges that seem insurmountable. But with grit and hard work, one can achieve great things! Baby-12 years
Blast Off Into Space Like Mae Jemison
By Caroline Moss, Illustrated by Sinem Erkas
When Mae Jemison was a little girl, she loved science, dancing, and dinosaurs. She watched the Apollo moon landings and wondered why none of the astronauts were women – and she just didn’t buy the answers she was given…
Discover how Mae Jemison became the first African American woman in space, in this true story of her life. Then, learn ten key lessons from her work you can apply to your own life.
Featuring inspiring quotes and mantras, this is a book for all kids wanting to forge their own career path in the field of STEM. 8-12 years
Mae Jemison: Trailblazing Astronaut, Doctor, and Teacher
By Linda Barghoorn
“The first African American woman to travel in space, Mae Jemison has broken barriers in science and medicine to become one of the most admired women worldwide. This book describes how Jemison refused to let anyone stand in the way of her dreams. She became a doctor and worked in the Peace Corps until NASA invited her to join the astronaut program. Today, she is an important advocate for science in education–especially for girls and women. Jemison also continues to push scientific research to improve life in developing countries.” 7-10 years
VIP: Dr. Mae Jemison, Brave Rocketeer
By Heather Alexander, Illustrated by Jennifer Bricking
Soar to the stars with Dr. Mae Jemison in this middle grade nonfiction biography. The books in the VIP series tell the true—and amazing—stories of some of history’s greatest trailblazers. Meet the VERY IMPORTANT PEOPLE who changed the world!
Mae Jemison is the first African American woman to travel to space. She’s also a medical doctor who once joined the Peace Corps. And a trained dancer, too! Experience all the exciting moments in Dr. Jemison’s thrilling life in this exciting biography, packed with two-color illustrations and fun facts, including the secrets of NASA. 8-12 years
The book descriptions used are primarily from the publishers.
If you like this post, then please consider sharing it and/or leaving a comment below. Thank you! Barbara Lowell, Children’s Author
Mars! Earthlings Welcome
By Stacy McAnulty, Illustrated by Stevie Lewis
Meet Mars! The red planet. Planet Marvelous. Favorite sibling of Earth (or so he claims). Sometimes they’re close (just 34.5 million miles apart). Sometimes they need space (250 million miles apart). Earth and Mars have a lot in common―clouds, mountains, polar icecaps. And while Earth has Earthlings, Mars makes a persuasive case for why people should make the journey to spend time with him. His day is 7 minutes longer. He is home to the largest volcano in the whole solar system. He’s, well, marvelous. 4-8 years
Mars First Friends: Come on Over Rovers!
By Susanna Leonard Hill, Illustrated by Elisa Paganelli
In a solar system full of planets, Mars feels all alone. All Mars wants is someone to play with, but all of the planets are just too busy. Mars can’t help but wonder…will he ever get a playmate? Until one day, Earth sends her little brother Mars his first friends: the rovers Spirit and Opportunity.
Learn about Mars’ rovers through this universal story about man’s―and Mars’―best friends―our beloved pets. This solar system book is the perfect book for little adventurers searching for more books on pets and space books for kids. 4-8 years
Curiosity: The Story of a Mars Rover
By Markus Motum
Maybe you remember when a little robotic spacecraft landed on a far-off planet. On August 6, 2012, the rover Curiosity touched down on the rocky surface of Mars — and now she’s ready to guide you through her journey firsthand. From idea to creation and beyond, this fact-filled book introduces readers to Curiosity and her mission: to discover more about the red planet and search for evidence of life.
How did Curiosity get her name? What tools does she use to carry out her tasks? In her own voice, the popular NASA rover tells how and why she traveled more than 350,000,000 miles to explore a planet no human has ever visited . . . and what she’s been doing there. 8-12 years
The Mighty Mars Rover: The Incredible Adventures of Spirt and Opportunity
By Elizabeth Rusch
On June 10, 2003, a little rover named Spirit blasted off on a rocket headed for Mars. On July 7, 2003, a twin rover named Opportunity soared through the solar system with the same mission: to find out if Mars ever had water that could have supported life. The Mighty Mars Rovers tells the story of the greatest space robot adventure of all time through the eyes—and heart—of Steven Squyres, professor of astronomy at Cornell University and lead scientist on the mission. This book captures the hair-raising human emotions felt during the adventures with two tough rovers. 10-12 years
National Geographic Reader: Mars
By Elizabeth Carney
Discover the fascinating world of Mars in this colorful book. In this format, kids will learn about the newest information on Mars, the Mars Rover, and our ongoing exploration of the Red Planet. This level 3 reader is written in an easy-to-grasp style to encourage the scientists and explorers of tomorrow! 6-9 years
Rover Throws a Party
Kristin L. Gray, Illustrated by Scott Magoon
It’s Rover’s anniversary on Mars! Time to celebrate by throwing the best party this planet has ever seen. Rover hands out invitations all over town, but it seems like he’s the only one around. Will anyone come to the party, or will Rover be all alone on his big day?
In 2013, NASA programmed their Curiosity rover to hum “Happy Birthday to You” in honor of its first year on Mars. Inspired by this anecdote, this is the tale of a lonely rover and his party, accompanied by fascinating Mars rover facts that help explain the real science behind the story. This fun birthday tale provides an accessible, kid-friendly look at one of NASA’s coolest programs. 3-7 years
Night Night, Curiosity
By Brianna Caplan, Illustrated by Ryan O’Rourke
In this rhyming bedtime book, a girl whose mother works at NASA imagines that she’s exploring Mars with the Curiosity rover as she gets ready for bed. She describes taking off, observing Mars, communicating with mission control, and operating the rover. Young space explorers everywhere will want to head for Mars, too. 3-7 years
Red Rover: Curiosity on Mars
By Richard Ho, Illustrated by Katherine Roy
Mars has a visitor. It likes to roam…observe…measure…and collect. It explores the red landscape―crossing plains, climbing hills, and tracing the bottoms of craters―in search of water and life. It is not the first to visit Mars. It will not be the last. But it might be…the most curious. Join Curiosity on its journey across the red planet in this nonfiction picture book by Richard Ho, illustrated by Sibert Honor winner Katherine Roy. 3-6 years
Spirit and Oppy
By Rachel Viniguerra, Illustrated by Samantha Gottwalt
Have you heard the story of the twin sisters who explored the surface of Mars? They were NASA’s twin rovers, Spirit and Opportunity (or Oppy for short). The two sisters traveled to Mars in 2003 and explored the vast planet. Although Oppy’s mission was only meant to last 90 days, she explored for 15 years overcoming obstacles with creative solutions. The sisters showed the world just how much two small rovers can do right up until the end of their missions. 5-9 years
Exploring Space: From Galileo to the Mars Rover and Beyond
By Martin Jenkins, Illustrated by Stephen Biesty
For centuries, humans have looked up at the night sky and wondered what it’s like deep in space, far from Earth — and now we’ve begun to find out. We’ve landed on the moon, put robots on Mars, and sent space probes billions of miles to explore the far reaches of our solar system. Find out what life is like on the International Space Station, what the chances are that we will ever settle on Mars, where in the solar system we might find alien life, and why visiting other stars will almost certainly remain a dream. Budding astronomers, junior astronauts, and anyone who has ever gazed up at the stars will enjoy this glimpse of the infinite wonders of space. 8-12 years
Moving to Mars
By Stef Wade, Illustrated by Erin Taylor
Mars likes peace and quiet and is not happy when unexpected visitors start showing up. But when they leave, Mars realizes being alone isn’t all that great. Mars reaches out to his space friends for comfort and help. Maybe Mars is a people planet after all! Author Stef Wade (A Place for Pluto) interweaves friendship and humor throughout the space story and seamlessly connects nonfiction information to the narrative in the back matter. 5-7 years
The book descriptions used are primarily from the publishers.
If you like this post, then please consider sharing it and/or leaving a comment below. Thank you! Barbara Lowell, Children’s Author
Stephen Hawking
By Maria Isabel Sanchez Vegara
When Stephen Hawking was a little boy, he used to stare up at the stars and wonder about the universe. Although he was never top of the class, his curiosity took him to the best universities in England, Oxford and Cambridge. It also led him to make one of the biggest scientific discoveries of the 20th century, Hawking radiation. This book features stylish and quirky illustrations and extra facts at the back, including a biographical timeline with historical photos and a detailed profile of the brilliant physicist’s life. 4-7 years
Stay Curious: A Brief History of Stephen Hawking
By Kathleen Krull, Illustrated by Paul Brewer
As a young boy, Stephen Hawking loved to read, stargaze, and figure out how things worked. He looked at the world and always asked, Why?
He never lost that curiosity, which led him to make groundbreaking discoveries about the universe as a young man. Even being diagnosed with ALS didn’t slow Stephen down. Those questions kept coming. As his body weakened, Stephen’s mind expanded allowing him to unlock secrets of the universe and become one of the most famous scientists of all time.
Stephen always approached life with courage, a sense of humor, and endless curiosity. His story will encourage readers to look at the world around them with new eyes. 4-8 years
Who Was Stephen Hawking?
By Jim Gigliotti, Illustrated by Gregory Copeland
Stephen Hawking was born exactly three hundred years after the death of the scientist Galileo, so maybe it was written in the stars that he would become a famous scientist in his own right. Although he was diagnosed with a neurological disease at age 21, Stephen did not let the illness define his life.
Known for his groundbreaking work in physics, and identified by his wheelchair and computerized voice system, Stephen continued his research until his death in 2018. He is best known for his black hole theories and his best-selling book A Brief History of Time. Stephen Hawking is an example of a person who had a great mind, but an even greater spirit. 8-12 years
Stephen Hawking: Cosmologist Who Gets a Big Bang Out of the Universe
By Mike Venezia
Meet renowned physicist Stephen Hawking. This book presents the life and work of the British physicist who overcame the challenges of ALS to become one of the foremost scientists of the twentieth century.
This book combines a mix of historical reproductions, photos, and cartoon-style illustrations that bring to life Stephen Hawking’s work and contributions. 6-10 years
All About Stephen Hawking
By Chris Edwards, Illustrated by Amber Calderon
As an Oxford student, Stephen Hawking never expected that people across the world would know his name, or that his hobby of stargazing would lead him to be one of the world’s greatest scientists. Stephen Hawking made cosmology, or the study of the universe, accessible to everyone.
He was diagnosed with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) at the age of twenty-one, but didn’t let that stop him from receiving a graduate degree from Cambridge and going on to be an expert in the scientific origin of the universe and black holes. Hawking is best known for writing A Brief History of Time, which explained cosmology in non-scientific terms so that non-scientists could understand it. 10-12 years
The Living Einstein: The Stephen Hawking Story
By Dissected Lives
Despite his debilitating illness, Stephen Hawking found ways to share his knowledge of the universe. He was a bright man who was always hungry for knowledge. He experimented, studied and explored anything and everything from the physical world to the cosmos. Be inspired by his story. Learn from his discoveries. 8-12 years
Stephen Hawking: A Life Beyond Limits
By Alex Woolf
In 1974, Stephen Hawking shook the world of physics. His theory on black holes went against everything the science community accepted as fact. How did he make such revolutionary discoveries? From a childhood spent building model airplanes to recognition as one of the greatest scientists of his time, Stephen’s genius and endless curiosity powered his work. Find out how this boy who loved science became one of history’s greatest trailblazers! 8-13 years
The Extraordinary Life of Stephen Hawking
By Kate Scott, Illustrating by Ester Mols
Stephen Hawking was: a physicist, a cosmologist, an author and one of the cleverest people who ever lived. While studying at Oxford University, Stephen Hawking was diagnosed with motor neurone disease, which meant that eventually he was completely paralyzed, and could only talk via a computer.
But that never held him back, and because of his work on time and space, he changed the way the world thinks about the universe.
Discover more about the life of a man who is known for his incredible contribution to science. 7-12 years
Little Guides to Great Lives: Stephen Hawkings
By Isabel Thomas, Illustrated by Marianna Madiz
Stephen Hawking was one of the world’s most renowned scientists and cosmologists. His ground–breaking research into black holes and the Big Bang has helped to explain the beginnings of our universe and his book A Brief History of Time has sold over 10 million copies. Diagnosed with a form of motor neuron disease when he was a young man, Stephen was inspired to achieve his goals as fast as possible. Through incredible determination and skill, he became a legendary scientist, a best–selling author, and the man that changed the way we think about the universe.
The book descriptions used are primarily from the publishers.
If you like this post, then please consider sharing it and/or leaving a comment below. Thank you! Barbara Lowell, Children’s Author
Trailblazers: Neil Armstrong
By Alex Woolf
Neil Armstrong become the first person to set foot on the moon. Long before that astonishing day in 1969, Armstrong was already dreaming of journeys above the clouds, visiting air shows and gaining his student pilot’s license at age sixteen. Find out how this flight-obsessed astronaut went on to take one of the most momentous steps in history. 8-10 years
Who Was the First Man on the Moon? Graphic Novel
By Nathan Page, Illustrated by Drew Shannon
From his childhood experiments to his first encounters with flight, explore the steps Neil Armstrong took in order to become the first person to land on the moon. A story of calculated risk, perseverance, and earth-defying reward, this graphic novel invites readers to immerse themselves in the life of the famous astronaut — brought to life by gripping narrative and full-color illustrations that fly off the page. 8-12 years
When Neil Armstrong Built a Wind Tunnel
by Mark Andrew Weakland, Illustrated by Luciano Lozano
Astronaut Neil Armstrong couldn’t be held down by Earth’s gravity. As the first person to step foot on the moon, Neil took the U.S. space program to new heights. But before that, he had a humble boyhood of cutting lawns, cleaning ovens, washing airplanes and plenty of adventures, including building a wind tunnel in his parents’ basement! This playful story shows young readers that the sky’s not the limit for their own dreams. 6-8 years
One Giant Leap: The Story of Neil Armstrong
By Don Brown
As a young boy, Neil Armstrong had a recurring dream in which he held his breath and floated high above the people, houses, and cars. He spent his free time reading stacks of flying magazines, building model airplanes, and staring through his homemade telescope mounted on the roof of his neighbor’s garage. As a teenager, Neil became obsessed with the idea of flight, working odd jobs to pay for flying lessons at a nearby airport. He earned his student pilot’s license on his sixteenth birthday.
Who knew that this shy boy, who also loved books and music, would become the first person to set foot on the moon. This is the inspiring story of one boy’s dream – a dream of flying that landed him more than 200,000 miles away from his home on earth. 4-7 years
Who Was Neil Armstrong?
By Roberta Edwards
On July 20, 1969, Neil Armstrong stepped on the moon and to an audience of over 450 million people, proclaimed his step a “giant leap for mankind.” This Eagle Scout built his own model planes and grew up to become first a test pilot for experimental aircraft and then an astronaut, the first to walk on the moon. Over 80 black-and-white illustrations bring Armstrong’s story to life. 8-12 years
I am Neil Armstrong
By Brad Meltzer, Illustrated by Christopher Eliopoulos
This fun biography focuses on the traits that made Neil Armstrong, the first man to walk on the moon, great — traits that kids can aspire to. I am Neil Armstrong tells the story of one of America’s icons in a lively, conversational way that works well for the youngest nonfiction readers and that includes his childhood influences. At the back is a timeline and photos. 5-8 years
Neil Armstrong One Giant Leap for Mankind
By Tara Dixon-Engel Illustrated by Mike Jackson
Neil Armstrong was America’s rocket man, the first person to set foot on the moon and turn science fiction into amazing reality. Award-winning authors Tara Dixon-Engel and Mike Jackson tell the fascinating story of how Armstrong went where no one had gone before, leaving his mark on the powdery surface of another world.
Even at an age when other boys were just learning to drive, Neil was training to reach the skies. He went on to study aeronautical engineering, win medals as a fighter pilot, try out the X-15 experimental rocket plane, and become one of the elite few chosen to be a NASA astronaut…where he took the test pilot’s credo of “higher, faster and farther” to thrilling heights. 10 and up
Pocket Bios: Neil Armstrong
By Al Berenger
Neil Armstrong is an American astronaut most famous for being the first person to walk on the moon: “One small step for man, one giant leap for mankind.” Before enrolling in the NASA Astronaut Corps in 1962, Armstrong was an officer in the U.S. Navy and served in the Korean War. Follow this extraordinary man’s life and accomplishments, from childhood to space and back again. 4-7 years
Take a Giant Leap Neil Armstrong
By Peter and Connie Roop
This Scholastic Chapter Book is a biography of Neil Armstrong, the first man on the moon and tells what he was like as a young boy.
The book descriptions used are primarily from the publisher.
If you like this post, then please consider sharing it and/or leaving a comment below. Thank you! Barbara Lowell, Children’s Author
Look Up With Me: Neil deGrasse Tyson: A Life Among the Stars
By Jennifer Berne, Illustrated by Lorraine Nam
Neil deGrasse Tyson was born curious. And the secrets of a billion galaxies lay there—waiting for him to explore its cosmic mysteries. He just had to look up. Up beyond the city lights, up at the shining stars, up through the Milky Way, and past the veil of the night sky.
Follow young Neil’s journey as he discovers the wonders of space, the thrill of science, and the joy in sharing the beauty of our amazing universe. Read his favorite mind-blowing facts and learn what mysteries are left to solve.
Astrophysics for Young People in a Hurry
By Neil deGrasse Tyson with Gregory Mone
From the basics of physics to big questions about the nature of space and time, celebrated astrophysicist and science communicator Neil deGrasse Tyson breaks down the mysteries of the cosmos into bite-sized pieces. Astrophysics for Young People in a Hurry describes the fundamental rules and unknowns of our universe clearly — and with Tyson’s characteristic wit, there’s a lot of fun thrown in, too.
Starstuck: The Cosmic Journey of Neil deGrasse Tyson
By Kathleen Krull and Paul Brewer, Illustrated by Frank Morrison
Young Neil deGrasse Tyson was starstruck when he first visited the sky theater at the Hayden Planetarium in New York City. He couldn’t believe the crowded, glittering night sky at the planetarium was real–until a visit to the country years later revealed the impossible.
That discovery was like rocket fuel for Neil’s passion about space. His quest for knowledge took him from the roof of his apartment building, to a science expedition in northwest Africa, to a summer astronomy camp beneath a desert sky, and finally back home to become the director of the Hayden Planetarium, where it all began. Before long, Neil became America’s favorite guide to the cosmos.
This story of how one boy’s quest for knowledge about space leads him to become a star scientist is perfect for young readers who are fascinated by the universe, aspiring scientists, and the dreamer in all of us. It will ignite your own sense of wonder.
Who Is Neil deGrasse Tyson?
By Pam Pollack and Meg Belviso, Illustrated by Manuel Gutierrez
When he was nine years old, Neil deGrasse Tyson went on a trip that would change his life. While visiting the Hayden Planetarium at the Museum of Natural History in New York City, he discovered the world of astronomy and felt like the universe was calling to him. He answered that call by diving deep into astronomy courses. After graduating from the Bronx High School of Science, he went on to earn a doctorate in astrophysics and eventually found his way back to the Hayden Planetarium as a staff scientist and, later, as its director.
Neil has not only found an exciting way to share his love and knowledge of space through his documentaries and podcasts, he’s also broken barriers for Black scientists and become one of the most famous astrophysicists ever. He is a published author, television host, and winner of the prestigious Public Welfare Medal for the role he has played in exciting the public about the wonders of science. 8-12 years
Star Talk With Neil deGrasse Tyson:Young Readers Edition
by Neil deGrasse Tyson with Charles Lu
For decades, beloved astrophysicist Neil deGrasse Tyson has interpreted science with a combination of brainpower and charm that resonates with fans everywhere. In 2009, he founded StarTalk, the wildly popular podcast that became an Emmy-nominated talk show on the National Geographic Channel in 2015. His pioneering book takes the greatest hits from the airwaves to the page in one smart, richly illustrated compendium for young adult readers.
Neil deGrasse Tyson: Star Astrophysicist
By Jill Sherman
In addition to speaking about challenging scientific topics for a variety of news sources, Neil deGrasse Tyson is director of a New York planetarium, hosts a science podcast, and has a following of more than three million on Twitter. Learn about his personal and professional life. He’s arguably the most famous astrophysicist in the modern world.
This Little Scientist, A Discovery Primer
By Joan Holub, Illustrated by Daniel Roode
Learn all about scientists who changed history in this engaging and colorful board book perfect for inventors-in-training!
Asking why.
Then making a guess.
Asking how.
Then proving with tests.
Little scientists make great big discoveries.
Now even the youngest readers can learn all about great and empowering scientists in history! Highlighting ten memorable scientists who paved the way, parents and little ones alike will love this discovery primer full of fun, age-appropriate facts and bold illustrations.
Neil deGrasse Tyson
By Kaitlyn Duling
In this book, early readers will learn about the life, accomplishments and contributions of astrophysicist Neil deGrasse Tyson. Leveled text will engage emergent readers as they learn about his life.
The book descriptions used are primarily from the publishers.
If you like this post, then please consider sharing it and/or leaving a comment below. Thank you! Barbara Lowell, Children’s Author
Eight books for kids about exploring the ocean.
Exploring the Deep, Dark Sea
By Gail Gibbons
Dive deep with Gail Gibbons as she explains the mechanics and discoveries of deep-sea exploration. The surface of the moon is more familiar to us than the deep sea of our own planet. Many oceanographers are trying to change that. To explore the deep sea, they climb into submersibles and employ ROVs to find out more about the ocean and ocean floor. Gibbons invites readers along for a journey to the deep sea, explaining the technology for exploration and kinds of animals found at different sea levels. 4-8 years
Flying Deep: Climb Inside Deep-Sea Submersible Alvin
By Michelle Cusolito, Illustrated by Nicole Wong
Climb aboard Alvin, the famous deep-sea submersible credited with helping to find the Titanic, and take a trip two miles down to the bottom of the ocean. Experience a day in the life of an Alvin pilot and join scientists at the seafloor to collect samples and conduct research. Along the way, discover what one wears, eats, and talks about during a typical eight-hour trip in a underwater craft and find out more about the animals that live deep in our oceans. Extensive back matter explains how Alvin works, describes the author’s research, and includes a glossary and further reading. 5-9 years
Shark Lady: The True Story of How Eugenie Clark Became the Ocean’s Most Fearless Scientist
By Jess Keating, Illustrated by Marta Alvarez Miguens
Eugenie Clark fell in love with sharks from the first moment she saw them at the aquarium. She couldn’t imagine anything more exciting than studying these graceful creatures. But Eugenie quickly discovered that many people believed sharks to be ugly and scary — and they didn’t think women should be scientists.
Determined to prove them wrong, Eugenie devoted her life to learning about sharks. Like Jack and the Beanstalk but under the sea, Eugenie dove down to discover a world of wonder beneath the water’s surface. She earned the name Shark Lady with her many discoveries about these beautiful creatures. Through her accomplishments, this star girl of the sea taught the world that sharks should be admired, not feared, and that women can do anything they set their minds to. 4-8 years
Otis and Will Discover the Deep
By Barb Rosenstock, Illustrated by Katherine Roy
On June 6, 1930, engineer Otis Barton and explorer Will Beebe dove into the ocean inside a hollow metal ball of their own invention called the Bathysphere. They knew dozens of things might go wrong. A tiny leak could shoot pressurized water straight through the men like bullets. A single spark could cause their oxygen tanks to explode. No one had ever dived lower than a few hundred feet…and come back. But Otis and Will were determined to become the first people to see what the deep ocean looks like. 6-9 years
Astronaut-Aquanaut: How Space Science and Sea Science Interact
By Jennifer Swanson
Journey from the deepest trenches in the oceans to the farthest humans have ventured into space and learn what it takes to explore the extremes. You might just be surprised by how similar the domains of astronauts and aquanauts really are. Space and the ocean — if you don’t think they go together, think again. Both deep-sea and space explorers have to worry about pressure, temperature, climate, and most importantly, how to survive in a remote and hostile environment. Join us on an amazing journey as we go up in space with astronauts and dive deep down in the ocean with aquanauts to explore the far-off places of our planet and the solar system. 8-12 years
The Brilliant Deep: Rebuilding the World’s Coral Reefs The Story of Ken Nedimyer and the Coral Reef Restoration Foundation
By Kate Messner, Illustrated by Matthew Forsythe
All it takes is one: one coral gamete to start a colony, one person to make a difference, one idea to change the world. The ongoing efforts to save and rebuild the world’s coral reefs — with hammer and glue and grafts of newly grown coral — and the living legacy of Ken Nedimyer, founder of the Coral Restoration Foundation. This is the story of the coral restoration pioneer in this brilliant tribute to the wonders of nature and the power of human hope. 6-9 years
Manfish: A Story of Jacques Cousteau
By Jennifer Berne, Illustrated by Eric Puybaret
Once upon a time in France, a baby was born under the summer sun. His parents named him Jacques. As he grew, Jacques fell in love with the sea. He dreamed of breathing beneath the waves and swimming as gracefully as a fish. In fact, he longed to become a manfish. Jacques Cousteau grew up to become a champion of the seas and one of the best-know oceanographers in the world. 6-9 years
Diving with Sharks
By Margaret Gurevich
Fans of Shark Week, Sharknado, and all things shark-related will want to sink their teeth into this exciting shark-infested chapter book. Join real-life cave divers, extreme photographers, and researchers as they brave thrilling undersea adventures. 7-10 years
Deep in the Ocean
By Lucie Brunelliere
A scientific team has boarded the submarine Oceanos to explore the ocean’s depths. Suddenly, it gets caught in a violent storm, causing it to drift thousands of miles off-course. From the glittering surface of the sea to the darkness of the abyss. Deep in the Ocean takes readers on a bewitching journey through fascinating waters — some warm, colorful, and crowded with sea creatures, others mysterious and turbulent. 3-5 years Board Book
The book descriptions used are primarily from the publishers.
If you like this post, then please consider sharing it and/or leaving a comment below. Thank you! Barbara Lowell, Children’s Author
Mae Among the Stars
By Roda Ahmed, Illustrated by Stasia Burrington
When Little Mae was a child, she dreamed of dancing in space. She imagined herself surrounded by billions of stars, floating, gliding, and discovering. She wanted to be an astronaut. Her mom told her, “If you believe it, and work hard for it, anything is possible.”
Matched with her mother’s encouraging words, Mae’s curiosity, intelligence, and determination paved the way for her incredible success at NASA. Mae Jemison was the first African American woman to travel in space. 4-8 years
Mousetronaut
by Mark Kelly, Illustrated by C.F. Payne
Astronaut Mark Kelly flew with “mice-tronauts” on his first spaceflight aboard space shuttle Endeavour in 2001. Mousetronaut tells the story of a small mouse who wants nothing more than to travel to outer space. He works as hard as the bigger mice to show his readiness for the mission and he is chosen for the flight. While in space, the astronauts are busy with their mission when disaster strikes. Only the smallest member of the crew can save the day. 4-8 years
Good Night Astronauts
By Adam Gamble, Illustrated by Mark Jasper
Good Night Astronauts features space camp, spacesuits, an international space station, rocket ships, space food, gravity, the solar system, stars, the atmosphere, walking on the moon, sleeping in space, science, and more. Put your spacesuit on and prepare to blast off! This board book takes little astronauts on a journey through an unforgettable galactic adventure. Little space cadets will learn about life as an astronaut in outer space while being lulled to a dreamy, star-filled sleep. Look out for aliens! Baby-3 years
Astronaut Handbook
By Meghan McCarthy
Do you have what it takes to be an astronaut? Blast off in this nonfiction picture book that transports aspiring space travelers to astronaut school. Take a ride on the “Vomit Comet” and learn how it feels to be weightless. Try a bit of astronaut food like freeze-dried ice cream. Have your measurements taken for your very own space suit. Get ready for liftoff! 3-7 years
The Usborne Official Astronaut’s Handbook
By Louie Stowell, Illustrated by Roger Simo and more
This is a how-to-guide for budding astronauts. It provides a crash course on what it takes to travel into space. This book answers all the big questions, from: “How do rockets work?” and “What do astronauts do all day?” to “How do you use the toilet on a spaceship?” This book explores the technology that astronauts use, from space suits to Soyuz spacecraft, and the scientific experiments performed on the International Space Station. 9 years and up
Look to the Stars
By Buzz Aldrin, Illustrated by Wendell Minor
Buzz Aldrin is one of only a handful of astronauts to have walked on the moon. He has a unique perspective about space. This book is an introduction to everything space related. It includes the development of the first rockets, America’s space race with the Soviet Union, details of all the Apollo missions, and learning about the International Space Station. 6-8 years
Astronauts
By Sophie Dussausois, Illustrated by Marc-Etienne Peintre
Blast off with this interactive book: Pull a tab to launch a rocket, lift the flaps to see inside a space suit, or turn the page to land the capsule safely on the ground. Chock-full of age appropriate information, this book is an out-of-this world look at astronauts and what they do. 5-8 years
My Journey to the Stars
By Scott Kelly, Illustrated by Andre Ceolin
Astronaut Scott Kelly wasn’t sure what he wanted to be when he grew up. He struggled in school and often got into trouble with his twin brother, Mark. Then one day, Scott discovered a book about test pilots and astronauts. That book set him on a new path. He first became a pilot and then an astronaut along with his brother. They were the first twin astronauts in history. His greatest accomplishment was commanding the International Space Station and spending almost a year in space. This is the story of an ordinary boy who grew up to do extraordinary things. 5-8 years
Astronauts
By Christine Engel
Blast off on an adventure to the International Space Station! Join the astronauts on their long journey. Learn how they work, eat, and sleep in this zero-gravity atmosphere. With its interactive features, kids can make a rocket take off, go on a space walk, and watch the sun rise and set 16 times a day. Board book for 1-4 years
Astronaut: Living in Space
by Kate Hayden
This Level 2 reader explores the fascinating world of an astronaut and tells what it’s like to live in space. Young readers learn what it’s like to hold down a job in zero gravity. 6-9 years
The book descriptions used are primarily from the publishers.
If you like this post, then please consider sharing it and leaving a comment below. Thank you! Barbara Lowell, Children’s Author
Moonshot: The Flight of Apollo 11
By Brian Floca
This is the story of Apollo 11 that began on July 16, 1969. Here are the steady astronauts outfitting themselves in their gloves and helmets and strapping and clicking themselves into sideways seats. This is a story of adventure and discovery and of home, seen from far away. 4-10 years
One Giant Leap
By Robert Burleigh, Illustrated by Mike Wimmer
On July 29, 1969, as Americans sat glued to their televisions and radios, Neil Armstrong and Buzz Aldrin did the seemingly impossible. They traveled 240,000 miles through space and set foot on the moon. One small step for a man; one giant leap for mankind. Their achievement not only brought the moon within reach, but now everything seemed possible. If it could be imagined, it could be done. 6-8 years
My Little Golden Book About the First Moon Landing
By Charles Lovitt, Illustrated by Bryan Sims
Little ones will learn about the rocket Saturn V, the command module Columbia, and of course the famous lunar lander Eagle, and how they each served to send astronauts into space. Kids will learn who the astronauts were and how they were chosen for the mission. And they’ll learn Neil Armstrong’s unforgettable words in his message back to Earth: “one giant leap for mankind.” Fun facts about the astronauts’ space suits and their work in space round out this picture book. 2-5 years
Apollo’s First Moon Landing: A Fly on the Wall History
By Thomas Kingsley, Illustrated by Jomika Tejido
From a launchpad in Florida to the lunar surface … Two cartoon flies join readers as they blast off into space and step foot on the moon with Neil Armstrong, providing a blend of facts and fun while telling the story of a great moment in space-exploration history. 6-8 years
Team Moon: How 400,000 People Landed Apollo 11 on the Moon
By Catherine Thimmesh
The story of Apollo 11, the first moon landing, belongs to many people. It belongs to the seamstress who put together 22 layers of fabric for each space suit. To the engineers who created a special heat shield to protect the capsule during its fiery reentry. It belongs to the flight directors, camera designers, software experts, suit testers, telescope crew, aerospace technicians, photo developers, engineers, and navigators. 10-12 years
One Giant Leap
By Don Brown
As a young boy, Neil Armstrong had a recurring dream in which he held his breath and floated high above the people, houses, and cars. He spent his free time reading stacks of flying magazines, building model airplanes, and staring through the homemade telescope mounted on the roof of his neighbor’s garage.
As a teenager, Neil became obsessed with the idea of flight. He earned his student pilot’s license on his 16th birthday. This is the story of one boy’s dream — a dream of flying that landed him more than 200,000 miles away in space. 4-7 years
Moonwalk: The First Trip to the Moon
By Judy Donnelly, Illustrated by Dennis Davidson
The astronauts of Apollo 11 made history as the first men to land on the moon. Learn how astronauts Neil Armstrong, Buzz Aldrin, and Michael Collins trained and achieved this momentous feat. Level 5 reader, 7-9 years
Who Was Neil Armstrong
By Roberta Edwards, Illustrated by Stephen Marchesi
On July 20, 1969, Neil Armstrong stepped on the moon and to an audience of over 450 million people proclaimed his step as “one small step for a man, one giant leap for mankind.” The Eagle Scout built his own model planes as a little boy, grew up to be a test pilot for experimental aircraft, and then an astronaut who walked on the moon. 8-12 years
Rocket to the Moon
By Don Brown
On July 20, 1969, Neil Armstrong took “one small step for man, one giant leap for mankind” when the Apollo 11 landed on the moon. But it wasn’t just one man who got us to the moon. Rocket to the Moon! explores the people and technology that made the moon landing possible. Instead of examining one person’s life, it focuses on the moon landing itself, showing the events leading up to it and how it changed the world. The book takes readers through the history of rocket building: from ancient Chinese rockets, to “bombs bursting in air” during the War of 1812, to Russia’s Sputnik program, to the moon landing. Beautifully illustrated and well-researched, this book is the perfect resource for curious readers and tomorrow’s scientists. It includes a timeline of space travel, a bibliography, and an index. 8-12 years
Apollo 11: Mission to the Moon
By Courtney Acampora
This Smithsonian Reader celebrates the 50th anniversary of Apollo 11, the first time humans stepped foot on the Moon. From president John F. Kennedy’s declaration to land a man on the Moon to astronaut Neil Armstrong’s first steps, children will learn all about Apollo 11. After reading this introduction to nonfiction, children can use the included quiz to reinforce reading comprehension. 3-5 years
Man on the Moon
By Anastasia Suen, Illustrated by Benrei Huang
It was 1969 and no one had ever set foot on the moon. Some said it couldn’t be done. But astronauts Mike Collins, Buzz Aldrin, and Neil Armstrong were going to try . . . Here in picture book format is the amazing true story of the first moon landing, when a man set foot on an unexplored world and showed us that the boundaries of our world were limitless. “[A] perfect introduction to space, the space program, and exploration. Thrilling!” (Kirkus Reviews) 3-7 years
Reaching For The Moon
By Buzz Aldrin, Illustrated by Wendell Minor
It’s been fifty years since Buzz Aldrin walked on the moon. But the journey didn’t begin when he stepped on board Apollo 11 in July 1969, it began the day he was born. Becoming an astronaut took more than education, discipline, and physical strength. It took years of determination and believing that any goal is possible — from riding a bike alone across the George Washington Bridge at age ten to making a footprint on the moon. We all have our dreams. This is the story of how Buzz Aldrin’s came true. 4-8 years
If You Decide to Go to the Moon
By Faith McNulty, Illustrated by Steven Kellogg
“If you decide to go to the moon,” writes Faith McNulty, “read this book first. It will tell you how to get there and what to do after you land. The most important part tells you how to return home. This book allows the reader to participate in every aspect of the journey from packing, to liftoff, to traveling through space. Readers land at the Sea of Tranquility, the site of the first lunar landing. 4-8 years.
First Man on the Moon
By Ben Hubbard, Illustrated by Alex Orton
An illustrated account of the historic first moon landing in July 1969. The accessible text recounts the story of the first moon landing, from its beginnings in the Space Race, to its early missions, to its successful Apollo 11 voyage with Neil Armstrong’s legendary first steps on the moon and the astronauts’ heart-stopping return to Earth. 8-12 years
The book descriptions used are primarily from the publishers.
If you like this post, then please consider sharing it and leaving a comment below. Thank you! Barbara Lowell, Children’s Author
Galileo Galilei
I, Galileo
by Bonnie Christensen
Galileo’s contributions were numerous. They included the telescope and the microscope. And his ideas were world-changing especially the sun-centric solar system. Albert Einstein called him “the father of modern science.” But in his own time he was branded a heretic and imprisoned in his home. He was a man who insisted on his right to pursue the truth, no matter what the cost. This made his life as interesting and instructive as his ideas. 8-12 years
Starry Messenger
By Peter Sis
In every age there are courageous people who break with tradition to explore new ideas and challenge accepted truths. Galileo Galilei was just such a man, a genius, and the first to turn the telescope to the skies to map the heavens. In doing so, he offered objective evidence that the earth was not the fixed center of the universe but that it and all the other planets revolved around the sun. He kept careful notes and made beautiful drawings of all that he observed. Through his telescope he brought the stars down to earth for everyone to see. 6-10 years
Who Was Galileo?
By Patricia Brennan Demuth, Illustrated by John O’Brien
Born in Pisa, Italy, in the sixteenth century, Galileo contributed to the era’s great rebirth of knowledge. He invented a telescope to observe the heavens. He turned long-held ideas about the universe topsy turvy with his support of a sun-centric solar system. This brilliant man lived in a time when speaking scientific truth to those in power was still a dangerous proposition. 8-12 years
Galileo Galilei and the Movement of the Planets (Graphic Biography)
By Jordi Bayarri Dolz
Galileo Galilei believed in the power of scientific observation over traditional ideas. His close study of the night sky helped support the theory that planets move around the sun. His defiant personality made him powerful enemies. This graphic biography covers Galilei’s life from his early work with projectiles to his revolutionary look at the cosmos. It also depicts the backlash to his bold ideas and his trial under the Inquisition. 10-14 years
Galileo! Galileo!
By Holly Trechter and Jane Donovan
For hundreds of years, people have dreamed of Jupiter, the king of the planets. But the trip across the solar system is so long and dangerous that it seems almost impossible. This is the incredible, true story of NASA’s Galileo Mission. It’s narrated by the medieval genius Galileo, who connects with middle-grade readers in a humorous way. Strap in for this epic adventure of imagination, brilliance, and plain old grit. 8-12 years
Galileo Galilei and the Pisa Tower:
A Bilingual Picture Book About the Italian Astonomer
(Italian and English Text)
By Nancy Bach, Illustrated by Leo Latti
Young readers and language learners will find this bilingual book easy to read and understand. This simple story introduces the Italian astronomer Galileo Galilei, his life, work and discoveries. All ages
Along Came Galileo
By Jeanne Bendick
One of the most important figures to come out of the awakening world of the Renaissance was Galileo Galilei. Often referred to as the “Archimedes of his time, Galileo was forever asking questions. Is it possible to measure heat? Is it possible to weigh air? Does the earth stand still or does it move? How fast do objects fall to the earth? His questions led to some of the most important answers of the scientific world and to his contributions to astronomy, physics, and mathematics. All ages
Galileo for Kids: His Life and Ideas, 25 Activities
By Richard Panchyk
Galileo, one of history’s best-known scientists, made revolutionary discoveries and proposed sometimes controversial theories that changed his world and laid the groundwork for modern astronomy and physics. The activities in this book allow children to try some of Galileo’s experiments on their own. 9 and up
Galileo’s Journal 1609-1610
By Jeanne Pettenati, Illustrated by Paolo Rui
On his summer vacation, Galileo Galilei hears about the newly invented telescope and decides to build one of his own. Turning his new “spyglass” to the night sky, he sees things that no one has ever seen before. He discovers that the Milky Way is made of stars, and that the moon has mountains. He notices a strange formation of “stars” that will eventually turn people’s understanding of the world upside down. Fictional journal accounts capture the famous Italian scientist’s curiosity and wonder as he makes some of the most amazing discoveries in history. 6-9 years
Galileo: The Genuis Who Charted the Universe
By Phillip Steele
Galileo made the first effective use of the refracting telescope to discover important new facts about astronomy. His observations led him to support Copernicus’s claim that Earth and the other planets circled the sun. His genius lay in the way he approached scientific problems. He reduced problems to simple terms on the basis of experience and common-sense logic. Then he analyzed and resolved the problems according to simple mathematical descriptions, opening the way for the development of modern mathematical physics. 8-12 years
The book descriptions used are primarily from the publishers.
If you like this post, then please consider sharing it and leaving a comment below. Thank you! Barbara Lowell, Children’s Author
Albert Einstein
By Kathleen Krull, Illustrated by Boris Kulikov
Albert Einstein’s name is a synonym for genius. His wild case of bedhead and his playful sense of humor made him a media superstar, the first, maybe only, scientist-celebrity. He wasn’t much for lab work. In fact, he had a tendency to blow up experiments. What he liked to do was think in “thought experiments.” What was the result of all his thinking? Nothing less than the overturning of Newtonian physics. 8-12 years
On a Beam of Light: The Story of Albert Einstein
By Jennifer Berne, Illustrated by Vladimir Radunsky
Travel along with Einstein on a journey full of curiosity, laughter, and scientific discovery. See how imagination can make a powerful difference in a life. 6-9 years
Odd Boy Out: Young Albert Einstein
By Don Brown
When he was born in 1879, Albert was a peculiarly fat baby with an unusually big and misshaped head. When he was a child, he hit his sister, frustrated his teachers, and had few friends. But his childhood also included his brilliant capacity for puzzles and problem solving. He set his mind spinning with ideas. His ideas were destined to change the way we know and understand the world and our place in the universe. 4-7 years
Who Was Albert Einstein?
By Jess Braillier, Illustrated by Robert Andrew Parker
Everyone has heard of Albert Einstein, but what exactly did he do? How much do kids really know about him besides his funny hair and genius label? Here’s the story of his life told in a funny, engaging way that explores the world he lived in and changed. 3-7 years.
Albert Einstein: A Curious Mind
By Sarah Albee, Illustrated by Gustavo Mazzali
Albert Einstein was a famous scientist who questioned everything—even the laws of physics! Einstein’s innovative thinking paved the way for many important inventions and discoveries that helped shape the world we live in.
Beginning readers will learn about the milestones in Albert Einstein’s life in this Level Two I Can Read. This biography includes a timeline and photos about the life of this inspiring scientist.
This book is a Guided Reading Level Q and a Level Two I Can Read book, geared for kids who read on their own but still need a little help. 4-8 years
Albert Einstein and the Theory of Relativity
By Jordi Bayarri
Albert Einstein’s restless intelligence drove him to ponder the biggest topics the universe has to offer: light, time, mass, energy, and more. His conclusions changed the way people thought about the laws of physics. But first, he had to pass his university entrance exams. This graphic biography traces Einstein’s path from his home country of Germany to his studies in Switzerland to his time in the United States. It also follows his life as an international scientific celebrity and his refusal to stay silent in the face of anti-Semitism. 10-14 years
Albert Einstein: Genius of Space and Time
By Mark Shulman, Illustrated by Kelly Tindall
By any measure, Albert Einstein changed the ways we understand—and measure—space and time. At first his ideas were ridiculed, but soon they were idolized. Prior to World War II, Einstein was a celebrated figure in Germany, but when the Nazi Party rose to power in the 1930s, he fled for his life and eventually settled in the United States. This proved to be a crucial decision, as his knowledge of physics helped the United States develop the atomic bomb and win the war. Albert Einstein: Genius of Space and Time! recounts the life of the world’s most famous scientist—from his youth in Germany to his final years in the United States. 8-12 years
Albert Einstein and Relativity for Kids
By Jerome Pohlen
Albert Einstein made a lasting impact on the world of science with his genius, fascinating life, and unique personality. This book features lots of science activities. Ages 9 and up
Albert Einstein: National Geographic Readers
By Libby Romero
Explore one of the most recognized scientists in the world with this biography. Kids will learn about his life, achievements, and the challenges he faced along the way. 6-9 years
Albert Einstein
By Frieda Wishinsky
This DK biography tackles one of the most colorful figures in science history. Ages 10 and up
The book descriptions used are primarily from the publishers.
If you like this post, then please consider sharing it and leaving a comment below. Thank you! Barbara Lowell, Children’s Author