First Book Of Planets For Kids

My son really loves solar system! Good content and pictures!

This is a fabulous 68-page book for children 3-5 years old by Bruce Betts, Ph.D., a planetary scientist who is also a children’s book author. Dr. Betts is the chief scientist and LightSoil program manager for The Planetary Society, a renown, international society for space-exploration enthusiasts. Having purchased and read this work, I will definitely look for other titles on the planetary sciences by Betts. Though intended for kids 3-5 years old, in my opinion this book would also be suitable for children up to 7 years old. The book is available in Kindle, hardcover ($11.66), paperback ($6.74), and spiral-bound ($9.48) editions, but I strongly recommend purchasing the hardbound book which is the most durable for repeated readings, and this is a book that is bound to be read again and again. The book presents basic planetary concepts with simple explanations in age-appropriate text accompanied by black-and-white and color images. I concur with other reviewers who mentioned that the quality of the images is somewhat wanting, but I do not feel this shortcoming is serious enough to deter purchases. Betts has sections on the terrestrial or “rocky” planets (Mercury, Venus, Earth, and Mars), the giant planets (Jupiter, Saturn, Uranus, and Neptune), and the dwarf planets (Pluto [which was downgraded from a planet, as explained by Betts], Eris, Haumea, and Makemake). Each planet’s text includes a sidebar that answers questions on the size of the planet, how far it is from the sun, and how many moons it has. In addition, terminology such as spacecraft, the atmosphere, the sun, the solar system, the term “orbit,” and asteroids and the asteroid belt are addressed. Fun facts that will delight children and hold their attention include 1) the rocky planets are closest to the sun, 2) Jupiter has at least 79 moons, 3) “If you think of the Moon as a tennis ball, then the Earth would be a little bigger than a basketball,” and 4) Saturn’s rings are made of dirty snowballs, some of which are as small as a snowflake and some bigger than a school bus. Betts thorough text is more than worth the price of the book, but he also includes a glossary for quick references. At the end of the book are 5 pages where children are encouraged to draw a planet. This outstanding primer both educates children and prompts their imaginations. Very highly recommended!

This is a really good book, packed with brilliant illustrations and fun facts
My daughter is space mad and this was a book that she loved
She would sit and look at the pictures and read the facts and that then moved to her reading the book herself and enjoying it that way. We tend to look at the stars and planets in the winter as the nights come in sooner so this was a great Christmas present for her.
It is 5 stars from me for this one – really good book and plenty of fun to read

Great illustrations and way for kids to understand perfect book for kids that want to learn more about outer space

My son loves the planets and this book was great for us to read through together. Each planet (or other celestial body) is discussed for four pages with beautiful illustrations. This was a perfect length for his age level. Key words are highlighted and defined in the back. My son is non-verbal and we are using this as lessons to help with his alternate forms of communication. It held his attention and he really seemed to love the content. Great book.

This has been my son’s favorite book since he was 2! he can recite nearly all the facts in the book and is only just 5! He will tell you Venus is the hottest planet and why as well as his favorite planet and dwarf planets! I love this book and he does too! Well written, stunning images and great for all ages who want to begin to learn about the planets. We’ve bought 2 of these so far and donated 1 to his preschools library.