Under the Stars: Astrophysics for bedtime
ANY PARENT WILL TELL you that along with “No!”, “Why…?” is the most popular word among children. Their wonder for the world around us is an amazing thing, and Lisa Harvey-smith manages to capture that wonder, and keep the passion for discovery going, in her beautifully illustrated and engaging first foray into children’s publishing.
Each chapter of Under the Stars tackles a thorny question about space, the Universe and everything up to a galaxy far, far away. It’s a brilliant read for older children to amuse themselves and dip in and out of when they want answers to random space-related questions (keeping away from the often incorrect landmine that is internet information). It’s also detailed and interesting enough for teenagers and young-at-heart adults (why is the sky blue?).
The book is organised into clear parts covering spacey themes such as the Earth, the Solar System and the Universe, flagging for readers as to what area of space their question might come under. Clearly posed questions for each chapter direct readers quickly to the answers they’re burning to know. Text is super easy to navigate for the generation used to instant results.
The volume of questions means this is a book that will become well thumbed over time, with readers returning to gratify new curiosities as they arise. Questions also instantly make the subject matter more accessible, as readers don’t have to wade through chapters that might not be of immediate interest.
Harvey-smith has captured how children think and want to access information perfectly, and she entertains as she goes, with humorous references to poos included – right on the target demographic. “How to say” help peppers the entire book, giving children a helping hand to access the knowledge and be able to talk about it and understand concepts further, without ever talking down to them or making them feel like they should already know something.
Overall, this is a delightful book – and one I can’t wait for my infant daughter to read, once she learns how to!