Welcome to Mars: Making a Home on the Red Planet

Gr 4–8—Drawing on his experiences as an astronaut, Aldrin takes readers on a journey to the Red Planet. Written in the first person, Aldrin's narrative addresses his audience as though they are part of the first group to populate Mars. The history of space travel is covered—students will get a sense of just how much has been discovered over the years to make this "journey" a possibility—as well as what we know about Mars itself (the surface, gases, dust). Aldrin discusses what readers will need to do to successfully inhabit the planet, such as finding a home and growing food. Activities including making "Swiss cheese" terrain and comparing the sizes of Mars and Earth are interspersed throughout, offering potential astronauts an idea of what to expect on a voyage to Mars. Colorful images, a time line, and a map of Mars enhance the text.