Gr. 4-7. An innovative design, featuring plastic overlays positioned over cutaway illustrations, distinguishes this well-organized introduction to space travel, in the Kingfisher Voyages series. The design is much like that of a DK title: a large portion of the information is contained in lengthy captions to the numerous illustrations on each spread. Divided into three sections, the clear, succinct text offers a brief history of space exploration, including astronaut training and rocket building; life aboard the space shuttle; and a look at exciting plans for future missions. Astronaut Sally Ride contributes a foreword, and her frequent quotes within the text will further spark readers' curiosity and awe. Ride's account of watching Earth's wild storms and erupting volcanoes from the deep calm of space is particularly moving. No additional resources are suggested to support reports, but the strong text and many vivid images, including drawings, photos, gatefolds, and cross sections, will easily draw browsers and aspiring astronauts alike.

　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　Gillian Engberg

length: (cm)26.1 　　　 　　　　　 　　　　　 width:(cm)24.3