Star of the Party: The Solar System Celebrates!
on Goodreads (111)
What’s inside...
Help throw Sun a birthday celebration in this hilarious picture book complete with nonfiction facts. Great for readers of Moonshot and for the budding astronomer in your life. The planets are throwing Sun a birthday party! Mercury wants to thank Sun for how close they are. (Being the closest planet has its perks.) Earth enjoys Sun's warmth. And all the planets want to celebrate Sun's magnetic personality. But party planning takes work. Do they even have room for all of Jupiter's moon? Don't space out. It's time for this star-studded event! Blast off with Jan Carr and Pura Belpre Award-winning illustrator Juana Medina's quick-witted and fact-filled picture book about the solar system and all of its (inter)stellar inhabitants.
Discussion points
What do you think it would be like to attend a party in space with the planets?
Which planet would you like to be friends with, and why?
How do you think the planets feel about celebrating together in the book?
If you could add another event to the solar system’s party, what would it be?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to use their imagination by asking them to visualize the party and describe it in their own words. Foster a deeper understanding by relating the characteristics of the planets to real-life traits, and explore friendships through the interactions in the story. Help your child draw parallels between the book’s celebration and their own experiences with festivities, enhancing their personal connection to the story.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Importance of teamwork
Explanation: In the story, all the planets work together to organize a surprise party for the Sun, demonstrating successful collaboration.
Real-World Application: Children learn that working together can achieve great results, a lesson they can apply in school projects or collaborative games.
Example Lesson: Value of appreciation
Explanation: The planets celebrate the Sun and express their gratitude for its warmth and light, showing how important it is to appreciate others' contributions.
Real-World Application: Encourages children to express gratitude and appreciation to family and friends, fostering a positive environment.
Example Lesson: Education about the solar system
Explanation: Through the narrative and interaction among the celestial characters, children learn about different planets and their characteristics.
Real-World Application: This knowledge helps children understand and remember basic astronomy, which can enhance their curiosity and interest in science.
Example Lesson: Creativity in problem-solving
Explanation: The planets have to creatively think of ways to keep the party a secret from the Sun, showcasing innovative thinking.
Real-World Application: Teaches children the importance of thinking creatively to solve problems, which can be applied in their daily encounters and challenges.
Example Lesson: Celebrating differences
Explanation: Each planet has unique qualities which are celebrated, teaching the importance of diversity and acceptance.
Real-World Application: Children learn to appreciate and respect others' differences, which is crucial for building healthy relationships and communities.