Super Stars: The Biggest, Hottest, Brightest, and Most Explosive Stars in the Milky Way (National Geographic Kids)
National Geographic Kids Chapters Series
on Goodreads (24)
What’s inside...
Superstars! is a book that explores the fascinating world of stars, guiding young readers through the galaxy and shedding light on the biggest, brightest, and most explosive stars. Expert David Aguilar provides an in-depth look at stars, explaining how they are born, how they affect our lives, and how they die. The book also covers unique aspects of stars such as star day-cares and 'diamonds in the sky', aiming to expand knowledge and ignite the imaginations of stargazers everywhere.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
8-12
Length
48 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What do you think makes a star become the biggest or the brightest in the Milky Way?
If you could visit any star from the book, which one would it be and why?
How do you think stars impact our Earth? Can you imagine what night would be like without them?
What did you find most surprising about stars after reading this book?
Tip: Role play these questions
Use comparisons to things your child is familiar with to help them understand the vast sizes and temperatures of stars.
Encourage your child to draw their favorite star or make a simple craft that represents something they learned from the book.
Link the story to real-life by watching documentaries or visiting a planetarium to bring the cosmic tales to life.
Ask speculative questions to spark your child's imagination, like how they might feel if they traveled through space to visit a star.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Curiosity and Exploration
Explanation: This book delves into the detailed characteristics of various stars in the Milky Way, encouraging young readers to explore the vastness and diversity of the universe.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this sense of curiosity and exploration to their daily learning activities, asking questions and seeking out new information about the world around them.
Example Lesson: Understanding Science and the Universe
Explanation: Through vivid imagery and factual information, the book educates children about the scientific aspects of stars, including their formation and life cycle.
Real-World Application: This knowledge helps children grasp complex scientific concepts which can enhance their academic performance in science subjects at school.
Example Lesson: Appreciation for Nature and the Cosmos
Explanation: By showcasing the beauty and complexity of stars, the book fosters an appreciation for natural phenomena and the cosmos.
Real-World Application: Children learn to value and respect the environment and the wider universe, promoting a lifelong commitment to conservation and scientific exploration.
Example Lesson: Patience and Perseverance
Explanation: Learning about the long lifespan and evolution of stars teaches children the values of patience and the impact of slow, yet significant changes over time.
Real-World Application: Children can mirror this understanding in their personal growth and learning processes, understanding that development takes time and persistence.
Example Lesson: Critical Thinking
Explanation: The book challenges readers to think critically about the information presented and to differentiate between various types of stars and their characteristics.
Real-World Application: This critical thinking ability can be applied in problem-solving tasks and in making informed decisions in everyday situations.