Outer Space Level 1

Gr 1-3–This nonfiction level one early reader is an excellent fit for newer readers with a passion for space science. Thoughtfully designed, the book begins with larger cosmic elements and progresses to smaller ones, ultimately resolving with a discussion of the ways humans investigate these celestial bodies. Vivid full-color photographs and computer-generated imagery bring the enormity of the universe into readers’ laps in visually compelling ways. Through concise, direct sentences that build upon one another and use frequent repetition, the fact-based narrative unfolds in a way that is both accessible and interesting to young readers. While the text itself is necessarily limited for its intended audience, it nonetheless manages to impart a vast range of information within its pages and challenges young readers with complex vocabulary. At the end, readers will find both a quiz to test their understanding of the text and a glossary with visuals to aid in comprehension.