Clouds in Space

July 1, 2024
Grades 2-4 This captivating crash course introduces Nebula, a radiant resident of the night sky, eager to explain her special place in the universe. Nebula recalls the first time people glimpsed her through telescopes, though the observers initially assumed that the smudgy form was simply a faraway rain cloud. And yes, Nebula concedes, nebulae and clouds have a number of things in common: they both contain dust, float in space, and can resemble a variety of shapes, cleverly demonstrated here by superimposed outlines and doodles on actual photos of nebulae. But there are also massive differences: a nebula is unfathomably huge, typically a range of vibrant hues, and produces elements of the universe and life itself. The elegant text offers both scientific explanations and dreamy descriptions, while incandescent artwork blazes on every page, depicting even the depths of space as warm and inviting. Back matter includes detail on the discovery and formation of nebulae, plus a variety of photos. An eminently approachable introduction to an intriguing aspect of our universe.

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Starred review from August 1, 2024

Gr 2-4-As a meteor and bright stars shimmer, a young girl gazes towards the night sky, while the text asks: "Want to know a secret?" The answer to that question, along with intriguing facts about outer space, await readers of this well-crafted picture book. Nebula, a benign figure with streaming hair, compares clouds in Earth's atmosphere to an outer space nebula. Nebulae are much larger and colorful: "a kaleidoscope, a riot of rainbows, atoms aglow with starlight." Even traveling at the speed of light, it takes more than 700 years to reach the closest nebula. Nebula describes how nebulae are created and their role as a stellar nursery, connecting the various parts of the entire universe. "I am the last burst of breath expelled by a star or supernova lofting elements into space like dandelion seeds on the wind." Eye-catching digital illustrations incorporate photos of actual nebulae; these make good use of lush color and add playful details. Illustrations also enhance the text as it limns both the history and future of outer space studies. VERDICT The fictional construct of a girl staring at the sky is hardly necessary; lively language and gorgeous illustrations make this an excellent introduction to astronomy for a wide audience of primary grade readers.-Marilyn Taniguchi

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