I have warm memories, as a child, each time a new copy of National Geographic Magazine arrived at our rural Michigan house. We lived in a place called Wolf Lake, about ten miles outside of Muskegon. To say this was remote is an understatement. But it was that magazine with the bright, yellow border that helped open the outside world. Each issue transported me to other lands and locations through exceptional photography and information.
And so it is with these two new books from National Geographic. The pictures and artwork are stunning. My young granddaughters especially enjoyed searching the pages of The Coolest Stuff on Earth. There were lots of questions when went through the Space Encyclopedia.
I’m sure these new books will become excellent resources when it comes time for their school reports in the future.
The Coolest Stuff on Earth: A Closer Look at the Weird, Wild, and Wonderful
Did you know that dogs can shake off a pound of water in less than a second? That some sand dunes whistle and sing? That the U.S. dollar bill is full of hidden symbols related to the number 13? Our world is filled with strange, bizarre, and weird happenings. But what do they mean? WHY are they important? And what secrets are behind them?
From the Publisher: These secrets and MORE are revealed through cool stories, action-packed photos, fantastic infographics, and exciting Q&As with in-the-field experts. Discover the secrets of sharkskin, the mysteries behind incredible island animals, the power behind lightning, how a rare gemstone changes color, and more. Kids will be captivated by this fresh way of looking at our amazing planet.
Space Encyclopedia, 2nd Edition: A Tour of Our Solar System and Beyond
From the Publisher: The updated and expanded edition of the hit Space Encyclopedia presents the most up-to-date findings on space exploration and research and breathtaking views of the universe, as captured by the latest and greatest technology, including the recent first ever image of a black hole. This complete reference contains everything kids need to know about our sun and planets including the new dwarf planets, the formation of the universe, space travel, the possibility of life beyond Earth, and more. Authored by David A. Aguilar, an internationally recognized astronomer and former Director of Science Information and Public Outreach at the Harvard-Smithsonian Center for Astrophysics, it is an authoritative and beautifully illustrated must-have for every family, providing both accessible information for school reports and compelling reading on the mysteries beyond our planet.
