When the Sun Goes Dark

Gr 3–6—Just in time for the August 21, 2017, total eclipse of the sun, an event that will be visible in the continental United States, this book clearly explains solar and lunar eclipses; partial, annular, and total eclipses; why our view of various constellations changes during the year; how to safely look at the sun; and more. The diagrams are clear and informative. However, this fascinating material is embedded in a mundane, unconvincing story with hollow dialogue ("I've heard of e-mail and e-books, but I didn't know what an e-clips was."). Grandma and Grandpa arrive for Diana's 12th birthday. What a coincidence! They have been traveling a great distance to see a solar eclipse. Soon after, they are transformed from doting grandparents into exceptionally able science teachers. Not only can they answer every question Diana and her brother raise, they also have all the necessary teaching props. The birthday party is completely forgotten, and there seem to be no parents around, either. Suffice it to say, the framing device isn't necessary. The subject is interesting enough on its own, and the authors are capable of explaining what eclipses are, why they occur, and how to view them without relying on a fictional narrative.