Staff Spotlight – A Universe of Stories
Blast into ECPL’s Summer Library Challenge with a Universe of Stories! These galactic reads are out of this world, sure to entice readers of all ages.
Earth! My First 4.54 Billion Years by Stacy McAnulty
Earth! My First 4.54 Billion Years is the planet Earth’s first person narrative of who she is and how she fits into the cosmic universe. This is a great introductory piece for kids learning about the Earth as a planetary being as well as our role as humans on Earth. By the end of this book, Earth will feel less like home and more like your friend, specifically one that requires great care and consideration. Additional kudos are owed to the author and illustrator for packing over 4 billion years into 32 pages!
Lego Women of NASA Space Heroes by Hannah Dolan
Meet some of the coolest women in space travel through the scope of LEGO. This title includes accurate historic portrayals using LEGO figures and scenes, all written at an introductory level. Meet standouts Sally Ride, Mae Jemison, Margaret Hamilton, and Katherine Johnson in this block-driven rocket into space.
Planetarium by Chris Wormell and Raman Prinja
A part of Big Picture Press’s Welcome to the Museum series, Planetarium delivers as an interactive, curated reading experience. The reading level is elevated and paired with entrancing illustrations that will pull in people of all ages and interests. Special standout passages include black holes, star life cycles, and the end of the universe. This title is oversized, full to the brim with information, and guaranteed to tickle the fancy of any astro art fans.
Twinkle Twinkle Little Star I Know Exactly What You Are by Julia Kregenow, PhD
Twinkle Twinkle is one of the catchiest songs out there, and this twist on the classic lullaby will leave readers with information that is sure to be stuck in your head as readily as its namesake tune. This rewrite is full of space allusions to help children understand that stars are more than just diamonds in the sky. There is helpful information explaining the book’s more complex topics, like atmospheric turbulence and atom fusion. Ideal for the kid with a million questions.
DK Life Stories: Katherine Johnson by Ebony Joy Wilkins
This is a great read-alike for fans of the “Who Was…” series. Katherine Johnson’s life, education, and work at NASA are highlighted in this early chapter book. This title does not shy away from the prejudice Johnson experienced as a woman of color working at NASA in its early days. Ebony Joy Wilkins perfectly pairs approachable illustrations with actual photographs of this landmark scientist.
