Jon Chad

This is a graphic novel. The premise is that one kid is home sick and bored. Her friend comes by with a book about the solar system, so they invent a spaceship (with their pets as the fictional crew) to travel throughout the solar system – to the sun, then to all the planets and “belts” in between them and slightly beyond, where they learn about where they are visiting.

This is aimed toward kids, but I learned some stuff about the solar system, as well. I really enjoyed this. The pets as crew was kind of silly, but likely appealing to kids. I liked that there was a summary at the end of each planetary visit to explain some of the things learned. I also liked that they stopped at Pluto, even though it is no longer considered a planet. And I also enjoyed learning about a few of the planets’ moons. It was unfortunate temperatures were only in Fahrenheit, however. The illustrator did a really nice job, as well; the illustrations are all in colour.… (mais)

A thoroughly engaging graphic narrative which is aimed at the younger age group in children's non-fiction. The concepts are clearly explained and a valuable building block to the chemistry students will encounter later in middle school science.

The adventures of 'Mel', the protagonist coping with these chemical characteristics will appeal to kids who enjoy the hero coping with difficulties of challenging molecules. It really is a fascinating way to demonstrate some basic principles.

This book is part of "Science Comics", a series which covers a broad selection of scientific principles. They're accurately written and reliably entertaining. Highly recommended!… (mais)