Review by Booklist Review
This book entices readers with alluring pictures--most from NASA's collection--and will capture their attention for hours. Most of the real estate is devoted to visuals, with the text occupying no more than half a spread. The book is divided into five parts, starting with coverage of the universe and working inwards. While the first section starts with various ancient cosmologies, the primary focus is our contemporary understanding of the cosmos. The next section explores galaxy and star systems, covering types of galaxies, birth and demise of stars, and recent space missions. Closer to home, the following section focuses on missions and our understanding of the outer solar system (Saturn and beyond). Next the volume explores the inner planets. The last part tries to predict the future of space travel and exploration. This is the only section where the pictures are artistic renderings rather than actual photos. The pictures are stunning, and the narrative is generally jargon free and conversational. Sidebars are thumbnail biographies of relevant luminaries. Well suited for visual learners looking for an introduction to our contemporary understanding of the universe.
From Booklist, Copyright (c) American Library Association. Used with permission.
Review by School Library Journal Review
Gr 3--8--Launius gives young readers and researchers the knowledge needed to keep the pace in the space race. The Atlas is organized into five large sections that are sandwiched between an introduction and an index. The large sections provide readers a map for exploring space, starting with a look at "Our Universe," zooming out next to wander "Galaxies and Star Systems" and "The Outer Solar System," then moving to a closer looking at "Our Nearby Worlds," and finally, wondering "What Might the Future Hold?" Within each section, smaller subsections take a deeper dive into topics in clear, fact-driven and engaging prose. Importantly, Launius shares "ideas of the universe" with young researchers with global, non-Western histories of space, including, for example, summaries of Mayan and Babylonian thought. In addition to the gorgeous images and illustrations, short biographies of important "space" people offer readers human faces, experiences, and moments of connection while exploring the vastness and mystery of space. VERDICT While this is a fun book to page through, get lost in, and find inspiration, the careful organization and index welcome readers across grade levels to explore and study the worlds we know and the ones we don't know--yet.--Jessica Schriver
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