No matter how much technology we add to the world, books will still be the #1 source for inspiration and knowledge for the coming generations. Sure, we might be reading bedtime stories from tablets instead of paperbacks, but the written word is here to stay. There are hundreds, if not thousands, of fantastic children’s books in this world, and in this article, we’re going to explore some that have been written with future astronomers and space scientists in mind. The recommended grade/reading levels have been included so you’re prepared for all stages of curiosity, from the time they’re toddlers to the start of middle school.
Toddlers to Grade 3
Hello, World! Moon Landing by Jill McDonald
Grades: Toddler - Preschool
The Hello, World! book series introduces your little ones to the wonders of the world, from ocean life and the Arctic, to plants and bugs, and everything in between. This book focuses on the moon landing, one of the most sensational milestones in the history of human achievement. Kids will learn what the Apollo 11 mission was all about, who went, and how we got there.
There's No Place Like Space: All About Our Solar System by Tish Rabe
Grades: Preschool - Grade 3
The Cat in the Hat returns, donning a space helmet to take kids on an adventure through the stars. It’s part of the Cat in the Hat’s Learning Library series that teaches kids to read at the same time as it informs them about the world they live in. Make sure you get the updated version that has removed Pluto from the list of planets (a sad but necessary revision). Through classic rhymes and fun pictures, kids will explore the Solar System, along with a few constellations.
National Geographic Little Kids First Big Book of Space by Catherine D. Hughes
Grades: Preschool - Grade 3
You know if it’s National Geographic, it has to be good. This big book of space is filled with vibrant illustrations, fun facts, and tidbits to help kids learn about the Solar System, and simple sentences that are perfect for teaching new readers. It also includes tips for parents to encourage continued learning and interest in space topics long after you and your child have read through the book.
Aliana Reaches for the Moon: A STEAM book for aspiring scientists! by Laura Roettiger
Grades: Kindergarten - Grade 3
What book teaches kids about the Moon, encourages sibling and family support, and even introduces a little Spanish at the same time? Aliana Reaches for the Moon is a lovely, lesson-filled book that will leave young readers feeling inspired and parents feeling proud. Aliana is a curious child who begins to learn about the moon and is inspired to make a present for her brother’s birthday. What will the present be? You’ll have to read to find out!
Counting on Katherine: How Katherine Johnson Saved Apollo 13 by Helaine Becker
Grades: 1 - 2
Counting on Katherine is an inspiring (and true) story that both teaches kids about mathematics and draws attention to a key player in the Apollo 13 moon landing. There are so many wonderful lessons to draw from Katherine’s story, but young girls in particular will enjoy seeing the possibilities and how far you can go if you never give up.
Grade 3 to Grade 6
Star Stories: Constellation Tales From Around the World by Anita Ganeri
Grades: 3 - 5
While learning about how the stars shine and how the Earth formed are exciting topics, it’s just as important to show kids the magic and mystery behind astronomy. One of the first astronomy activities humans engaged in was observing the patterns in the stars and using what they found to explain everyday life. Star Stories brings these constellation tales to kids and lets them see the creative side of astronomy.
Where Is Our Solar System? by Stephanie Sabol
Grades: 3 - 6
The Where Is? series is best-selling and the perfect way to introduce kids to a wide variety of topics. In this book, they’ll explore the field of astronomy, from the start to where we are now, and they’ll learn all about the Solar System along the way. This book is perfect for older kids because it not only tells them what the Solar System is, but also how we know so much about it.
What Is NASA? by Sarah Fabiny
Grades: 3 - 6
Like the previous book in this list, What Is NASA? is part of the best-selling series. While the other book focused on the history of astronomy as a field, this one highlights the space agency we all know and love: NASA. Kids who are curious about astronauts or have ambitions to work for NASA one day will love to learn all about it.
Astrophysics for Young People in a Hurry by Neil deGrasse Tyson
Grades: 3 - 6
You might think kids in grade school are a little too young for astrophysics, but there are actually a number of concepts they’ll be able to understand the basics of! By introducing them to these topics early on, you can kickstart an interest that will serve them well in later years when more advanced science courses head their way. Told with the usual wit of Neil deGrasse Tyson, it’s a great way to start some interesting conversations about the universe.
50 Things to See with a Telescope: A Young Stargazer’s Guide by John A. Read
Grades: 4 - 6
If your child has recently been gifted a telescope, you’re both likely at a bit of a loss as to what to look at. After you’ve explored the moon and spotted Saturn’s rings, where should you head off next? How do you get there? And how can you make sure that the targets are easy enough that you can let your child run the show and gain valuable experience with a telescope? This book will quickly become your go-to guide to exploring the universe with your child.
Learn More
There are an endless number of astronomy books out there, and this list should just be the start of your journey. So hop to it and start exploring the universe, one page at a time!
