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!

This book is a great introduction to the solar system for young readers. The information is simple, clear, and easy to understand, making it perfect for kids who are just starting to learn about planets. The illustrations are colorful and engaging, which helps keep attention throughout. It’s a short read but packed with good basic facts. Overall, a fun and educational book for early learners interested in space.

This is soo good. I love it as an adult and learned things I forgot about the solar systems. The illustrations are appealing and the facts are age appropriate. I got the soft cover and the paper and cover is very nice and appealing.

We love reading this book to our son! The information in it is so neat and always leaves our son asking a billion more questions.

My son knows all the planets now because of this book. He loves reading it before bedtime. Get it for your toddler! Very knowledgeable

Perfect gift for my grandson. Good quality.

My son likes this book. It's easy for understanding and interesting book.

Very pleased with this book for the little ones. Great pictures and written in a way to spark an interest in the universe.

This is a great book short but informative

Nice book I understand it and very nice

Absolutely brilliant book. I got this for my 4 year old and he loves it! Fun to read and educational.

Wonderful little book

とても分かりやすい英語で、大人にとっても楽しく勉強になります。ペーパーバックだけど、厚手の紙で、挿し絵もカラフルでとてもきれい。惑星に興味を持ち始めたバイリンガルの孫のために買いましたが、私もとても勉強になりました。