Sometimes CMLE will highlight several books that have some factor in common. We hope they will give you ideas for your collection, or influence an activity, lesson plan, or display!

Since last weekend was Earth Day, and Astronomy Day is just around the corner on April 29th, we thought it would be fun to highlight a few books and activities that focus on planets, moons, stars, and space!

• Read all about constellations:
  Once Upon a Starry Night by Jacqueline Mitton, illustrated by Christina Balit
  “Take an illuminating ride through the starry night sky, and learn how the heavens pay tribute to the gods of Greek and Roman mythology. Once Upon a Starry Night explains the ten ancient figures whose legends are written large across the universe. Every page shines with Christina Balit’s vibrant art, studded with shiny stars, and provides the perfect backdrop to Jacqueline Mitton’s poetic text.”

Be inspired by the book to make some marshmallow constellations!

• Learn about the moon from The Moon Book by Gail Gibbons
  “Facts about the moon, including eclipses and its different phases”

 And definitely check out one of my favorite books about the moon, Moon Mouse by Adelaide Holl
“Determined to get to the moon, a baby field mouse climbs to the top of a large building and finds a big round yellow object sitting on a table and tasting very much like cheese.”

Learn how to make Moon Rocks from this short video (they look pretty at the end!)

For adults, check out this nonfiction reading list about space from Bustle. Two other reading options include:

• Women in Science by Rachel Ignotofsky
  “Women in Science celebrates the achievements of the intrepid women who have paved the way for the next generation of female engineers, biologists, mathematicians, doctors, astronauts, physicists, and more! “
• Startalk with Neil deGrasse Tyson
  “This New York Times Bestselling illustrated companion to celebrated scientist Neil deGrasse Tyson’s popular podcast and National Geographic Channel TV show is an eye-opening journey for anyone curious about the complexities of our universe. “