Astrologica

Offering an encyclopaedia of myths and legends about the planets and stars, ‘Astrologica’ is a fascinating read. Lavishly illustrated, it is perfect for introducing young readers to stories of the skies from around the world.

A glossary appears at the beginning of this book, allowing readers to familiarise themselves with the relevant terminology before as well as offering a convenient reference point whilst reading. A look at the origins of astrology sets the scene before a section on the ‘Myths of the Tropical Zodiac’ focuses on each star sign in turn, sharing its story as well as the attributes associated with that sign, the dates it covers, its symbol, constellation and element. Each myth is carefully retold and ‘Did You Know?’ sections offer additional information.

‘Myths of the Solar System’ and ‘Myths of the Stars’ follow, with tales from around the world celebrating celestial bodies and the people who observed and revered them. The author acknowledges the similarities and differences in how these planets and stars might be viewed by those in different places, but manages to convey a shared sense of awe and wonder for the skies above. These would make wonderful stories to share with a class, broadening children’s knowledge and deepening understanding of different cultures.

‘Star Knowledge Around the World’ explores how different cultures and countries have used the stars- like Maya astronomers, Inca sun worshipers and the Chinese zodiac. Full of fascinating details, there is so much to learn and enjoy!

The final section focuses on astrology today and how this differs from astronomy, encouraging readers to ponder about the subject. Sure to pique curiosity about the subject, this book is a real treasure trove of stories, accompanied by stunning illustrations- a perfect gift!

Astrologica

Suki Ferguson, illustrated by Camelia Pham

Wide Eyed ISBN: 978-0711293595

University of Cambridge: Build Your Own Solar System

Beautifully presented and packed with information, ‘Build Your Own Solar System’ is another ingenious book from Nosy Crow which engages children through both reading and activity.

Starting with a section entitled ‘What is the Solar System?’, the book offers clear sections of carefully explained text which deepen the reader’s knowledge and understanding of the different planets and features which make up our solar system. Dramatic illustrations illuminate every page, drawing interest and helping to guide the reader to different sections.

In addition to information about the planets, links are made to the gods and goddesses from mythology which gave them their names. Whilst many readers might be familiar with the fact that Venus is named after the Roman goddess of love and beauty, some might be surprised to learn that the tallest active volcano on Venus is named after Ma’at, the Egyptian goddess of balance, truth and justice. The role of key figures in the world of astronomy such as Abd al-Rahman al-Sufi and Galileo are also mentioned, encouraging those interested to find out more.

Perfect for enriching the Y5 Science programme of study of ‘Earth and Space’, the book not only offers a wealth of facts about our solar system, but allows children to create a model of each using the press outs in the end section and arranging them in order, reinforcing the learning from the text. There is a QR code to scan which offers step-by-step ‘how to’ videos for support if needed.

University of Cambridge: Build Your Own Solar System

Lauren Fairgrieve, illustrated by Anja Susanj

Nosy Crow ISBN: 978-1805132776

You can read my review of ‘Birds of a Feather’ also written by Lauren Fairgrieve here.

NNFN2024: A Little Blue Dot

November is flying by-but there are still plenty of days left to share lots of fabulous factual books. Today’s book is ‘A Little Blue Dot, from Mama Makes Books, a small, independent publisher.

‘A Little Blue Dot’ is a lovely example of narrative non-fiction, allowing younger readers the joys of a story combined with accurately researched facts and details. Here, Earth, an ‘inconspicuous’ blue dot, contemplates the other planets as she floats in space. She feels that all the other planets are special, whilst she isn’t. As she contemplates the wonders of Mercury, the beauties of Venus and so on, she shares information about each one until she is interrupted by the other planets assure her that they are all jealous of her. Then Earth hears a little voice with something very important to say…

Through the conversational tone of the text and adorable illustrations, readers are offered a wealth of information about the planets which is accessible and entertaining. A little fact file about each planet is also presented on the end papers which shows them all in order from the sun with the Asteroid belt and the Kuiper belt included.

There is, of course, the additional benefit of a subtle message about not comparing yourself to others and realising just how unique and special everyone is which can easily be drawn from the story should readers wish. However, there is no questioning the importance or value of cleverly written narrative non-fiction texts in both reading for pleasure and reading for information. This delightful book is perfect for allowing children to learn more about the planets- and enjoy a lovely story along the way!

A Little Blue Dot

Maren Hasenjäger

Mama Makes Books ISBN: 978-1916780057