Beyond the Solar System: Exploring Galaxies, Black Holes, Alien Planets, and More; A History with 21 Activities (49) (For Kids series) - Softcover

Mary Kay Carson has written more than 30 nonfiction books for children, including The Bat Scientists, Exploring the Solar System, and The Wright Brothers for Kids.

"A highly readable text . . . teachers may find these 21 activities especially helpful, but handy readers can follow these clear directions on their own. This is a useful path for budding space scientists."  —Kirkus Reviews

"A fast-paced, but worthwhile, tour of the history of astronomy. Carson shows unusual finesse in communicating the methods and significance of scientific breakthroughs . . . Notable for its unusually clear explanations of complex topics, this volume is a worthy companion to Exploring the Solar System." —Booklist

“A comprehensive combination of astronomical history and science, with activities that should encourage curiosity and involvement.”  —Publishers Weekly

"I would recommend this book to all children who have a passion for learning, not just about the night sky, but all aspects of our scientific history. The many illustrations and activities only enhance the reader's understanding of the subject matter and enable him or her to be challenged to learn more, and hopefully one day to join the ranks of the great people documented in the book."  —National Space Society

"This volume is a great reference tool for astronomy lovers. The combination of history with hands–on activities is a novel approach that would certainly entertain and engage middle school students and beyond. The photos on the glossy pages are eye-catching and the diagrams come with great explanations . . . this volume would make a great resource for a school library or the library of a budding astronomer."  —National Science Teachers Association (NSTA) Recommends

"The book stands out from other introductions to the field because of the activities, all of which use simple and easy-to-find materials."  —Science Magazine

"This inviting and informative comprehensive survey will be useful for homework assignments and may send young scientists to further studies of astronomy."  —School Library Journal

"Scientific terms and concepts are clearly explained in context, and Carson’s lucid writing makes difficult-to-grasp ideas manageable. The pages are packed with colorful reproductions, crisp photos, charts and diagrams, and dazzling NASA images." —School Library Journal

"The activities are perfect 'boredom busters' for cold winter days."  —Washington Post