BIG Words for Little Astronauts by Lisa M. Gerry

BIG Words for Little Astronauts provides an introductory vocabulary for younger readers, from Astrophysics to EXtraterrestrial.

BIG Words for Little Astronauts: The Stellar Dictionary Every Space Explorer Needs by Lisa M. Gerry. National Geographic, 2024, 34 pages.

Reading Level: Picture Book, ages 4-8

Recommended for: ages 5-9

A Mars exploring robot named Grover the Rover guides us through this space vocabulary lesson, with words ranging from astronauts and their gear to earth’s layers of atmosphere, the solar system, space exploration, the moon and Mars to galaxies and stars. Some of these words everybody knows; others were new to me.

I wasn’t crazy about the layout, a combination of photos and collage with overlarge eye-straining text. Also didn’t think it was necessary to provide a pronunciation guide for every word, like OR-bit and MARZ—even URTH. It’s consistent with longer words like MEH-zuh-sfeer, but distracting. Otherwise, this is a quick and accessible source for talking about space with early-elementary students.

Bottom Line: Check it out to brush up on your astro-vocabulary.

Also at Redeemed Reader:

• Review: Younger middle-graders may enjoy the Astrotwins sci-fi series by former astronaut (and current senator) Mark Kelly.
• Reviews: Two excellent picture books for future space travelers are Exploring Space and How We Go to the Moon.

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