My First Book of Planets: All About the Solar System for Kids

This is a fabulous 68-page book for children 3-5 years old by Bruce Betts, Ph.D., a planetary scientist who is also a children's book author. Dr. Betts is the chief scientist and LightSoil program manager for The Planetary Society, a renown, international society for space-exploration enthusiasts. Having purchased and read this work, I will definitely look for other titles on the planetary sciences by Betts. Though intended for kids 3-5 years old, in my opinion this book would also be suitable for children up to 7 years old. The book is available in Kindle, hardcover ($11.66), paperback ($6.74), and spiral-bound ($9.48) editions, but I strongly recommend purchasing the hardbound book which is the most durable for repeated readings, and this is a book that is bound to be read again and again. The book presents basic planetary concepts with simple explanations in age-appropriate text accompanied by black-and-white and color images. I concur with other reviewers who mentioned that the quality of the images is somewhat wanting, but I do not feel this shortcoming is serious enough to deter purchases. Betts has sections on the terrestrial or "rocky" planets (Mercury, Venus, Earth, and Mars), the giant planets (Jupiter, Saturn, Uranus, and Neptune), and the dwarf planets (Pluto [which was downgraded from a planet, as explained by Betts], Eris, Haumea, and Makemake). Each planet's text includes a sidebar that answers questions on the size of the planet, how far it is from the sun, and how many moons it has. In addition, terminology such as spacecraft, the atmosphere, the sun, the solar system, the term "orbit," and asteroids and the asteroid belt are addressed. Fun facts that will delight children and hold their attention include 1) the rocky planets are closest to the sun, 2) Jupiter has at least 79 moons, 3) "If you think of the Moon as a tennis ball, then the Earth would be a little bigger than a basketball," and 4) Saturn's rings are made of dirty snowballs, some of which are as small as a snowflake and some bigger than a school bus. Betts thorough text is more than worth the price of the book, but he also includes a glossary for quick references. At the end of the book are 5 pages where children are encouraged to draw a planet. This outstanding primer both educates children and prompts their imaginations. Very highly recommended!

My 3 year old grandson LOVES this book. I read it to him over and over and he does not tire of it.The pictures are great and the information is concise and simple to understand. If you have a child or grandchild, this book will inspire their imaginations about the sun, planets, and asteroids.If I had to choose just one book about the solar system for my child, this is the book!

Beautifully illustrated and simple description of each planet so as not to lose a child's interest. My great-grandson is going to love it! It even has a glossary in the back.

We got this for my son and he loves this book! So many cool facts

Bought this for my son, he loves everything space and solar system and this book kept him turning the pages. Highly recommended.

Great illustrations, well written. Great book for young and middle school readers.

Love this book. My daughter loved it.

As soon as my toddler started showing interest in planets and our solar system I got her this book and we love it! Pictures our beautiful and this is extremely informative. My 2 year old and I have both learned new things from this book. Love it. Highly recommend.