(4) K-3 I Wonder Why series. Simple text in question-and-answer format presents an introduction to the technologies and theories behind outer space and space exploration, from galaxies and stars to planets and moons. The facts are entirely random and light on real science but they could stimulate curiosity about the topic. The many illustrations on busy pages include a combination of realistic-looking drawings and humorous cartoons. Ind.

Reviewer: Tamara DePasquale

(4) K-3 Explorers series. In this browsable book, crowded double-page spreads cover the basics about stars, the moon, and planets, along with space travel, living in space, and unmanned spacecraft. The sound-bite information appears in short paragraphs all over the pages; captioned photos and illustrations provide examples related to each topic. Icons intended to link common themes throughout the book (discovery, technology, etc.) can be more confusing than helpful. Ind.

Reviewer: Sethany Rancier Alongi

(4) 4-6 Kingfisher Knowledge series. This basic introduction to the stars, the sun, and space exploration features famous astronomers, current and ancient beliefs about the origin of the universe, and layouts rich with photos, diagrams, and reproductions. The three chapters end with a summary, websites, places to visit, and related professional fields, giving a textbook element to the otherwise well-illustrated trade book format. Glos., ind.

Reviewer: Hilary Breed Van Dusen

(4) 4-6 Crowded double-page spreads introduce different features of the night sky, including the moon, the planets, and the stars. The text also lightly touches on related topics, such as the history of astronomy, the search for life in space, and the Big Bang. The volume is illustrated with reproductions, photos, and wonderfully evocative images of planet nebulae, asteroids, and comets. Glos., ind.

Reviewer: Peter D. Sieruta

(4) 4-6 SuperSmarts series. General information about the nature and lives of stars is provided in the first book; the universe and space travel is covered in the second. Illustrations in a variety of styles accompany the brief texts. The material is mostly conveyed through pictures and diagrams, with true-false questions in the margins. The books are best for browsing; readers may need to look elsewhere for more substantial facts. Ind.

Reviewer: Harry Clement Stubbs