Star Stuff: Carl Sagan and the Mysteries of the Cosmos
on Goodreads (1,529)
What’s inside...
Star Stuff: Carl Sagan and the Mysteries of the Cosmos' by Stephanie Roth Sisson is a picture book that explores the life and work of Carl Sagan, a renowned astronomer and science communicator. The book delves into Sagan's fascination with the mysteries of the universe, from the stars and planets to the origins of life on Earth. Through Sisson's whimsical illustrations and accessible text, readers will learn about Sagan's contributions to the field of astronomy and his passion for sharing scientific knowledge with the world. For every child who has ever looked up at the stars and asked, 'What are they?' comes the story of a curious boy who never stopped wondering: Carl Sagan. When Carl Sagan was a young boy, he went to the 1939 World's Fair and his life was changed forever. From that day on, he never stopped marveling at the universe and seeking to understand it better.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
3-7
Length
42 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What do you think made Carl Sagan so passionate about the stars and the cosmos?
How do you feel when you look up at the night sky after reading about Carl's discoveries?
If you could explore any part of the universe, where would you go and why?
What are some ways you think we can learn more about space from Earth?
How can studying the stars help us understand more about our planet?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to express their thoughts and emotions about the cosmos openly. Use the illustrations in the book to point out different celestial bodies. Relate the story to current space exploration events or news to make it more tangible. Validate their thoughts and provide additional fun facts about space to further pique their interest. Encourage them to dream big, like Carl Sagan, and explore different ways they can learn more about astronomy.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Curiosity and exploration
Explanation: The story of Carl Sagan highlights his childhood curiosity about the stars which led him to become a renowned astronomer. His questions about the universe are depicted as a driving force in his pursuit of knowledge.
Real-World Application: Encourages children to ask questions and seek answers about their surroundings, promoting a lifelong love for learning.
Example Lesson: Perseverance and dedication
Explanation: Carl Sagan's journey in the book shows how his dedication to studying the cosmos, despite challenges, contributed to his success and discoveries.
Real-World Application: Motivates children to stay committed to their goals, even when obstacles appear, underscoring the importance of resilience.
Example Lesson: Importance of education
Explanation: The narrative emphasizes Carl Sagan’s formal education and self-taught knowledge as crucial to his accomplishments.
Real-World Application: Inspires children to value and pursue their education as a tool for achieving their dreams and contributing to society.
Example Lesson: Sharing knowledge with others
Explanation: Carl Sagan is portrayed sharing his discoveries and insights, aiming to educate others about the universe.
Real-World Application: Encourages children to share their knowledge and discoveries with peers and family, reinforcing communication skills and community building.