Ray: How Light Works (A Science Pals Book)
A Science Pals Book Series
on Goodreads (1)
What’s inside...
Ray is a friendly beam of light who takes readers on a lively tour of the science behind illumination—how it travels, bounces, bends, and bursts into rainbows. Through everyday settings such as kitchens, classrooms, and backyards, Ray demonstrates phenomena like reflection, refraction, absorption, and the visible spectrum, all while inviting children to observe, question, and experiment with light in their own world.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
3-7
Length
40 pages
Text complexity
Character compass
Ray
Discussion points
What surprised you most about the way light moves?
How did Ray change direction in the mirror scene?
Why do you think rainbows need both sun and rain?
What can we do at home to use light responsibly?
Tip: Role play these questions
Keep a flashlight handy while reading to act out Ray’s journey.
Record observations in a shared ‘Light Journal’ to reinforce learning.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Curiosity fuels learning
Explanation: Ray constantly asks and answers ‘how’ and ‘why’.
Real-World Application: Children can pose questions during daily routines and research answers.
Example Lesson: Observation is a scientific tool
Explanation: Kids watch spoons look ‘broken’ in water to understand refraction.
Real-World Application: Use careful watching to notice patterns in nature or toys.
Example Lesson: Responsible energy use
Explanation: Ray models turning lights off when not needed.
Real-World Application: Children practice switching off lights when leaving rooms.
Example Lesson: Teamwork in discovery
Explanation: Ray collaborates with kids in each scene.
Real-World Application: Cooperate on group science projects at school.