A large-format tour of our solar system and parts beyond.Along with sailing past the usual spots on the cosmic grand tour, this Italian import ventures up some less–well-traveled byways. The diversions begin at once as, following maps of the "Scientific" (i.e., modern astronomical) skies, alternative versions superimpose sky stories from ancient Greek, classical Chinese, and "South African" (more exactly, San) cultures. Then the ensuing planetary tour highlights select Jovian moons, pairs equally close-up looks at Pluto and its moon Charon (almost the same size), and devotes a full spread to Ceres, the largest of the asteroids. Later stops to explore prominent astro-phenomena in the skies behind Ursa Major and Orion on the way to the Large Magellanic Cloud precede a final section on satellites and observatories, spacesuits, and the International Space Station. Many of Rosin's big illustrations look like painted versions of space photos, but his portraits of planets and moons are large enough to allow labeling of some surface features that might be hard to make out in a photo. He also depicts racially diverse crews of men and women astronauts as well as adding two children (one with light-brown skin, the other White) plus a comical ET simply as observers throughout. Albanese misclassifies the Milky Way as a spiral galaxy, but her commentary is otherwise stocked with solid, if standard-issue, facts.Not stellar (except in the literal sense), but a few surprises give the itinerary a bit of extra juice. (glossary, index, selected sources) (Nonfiction. 8-12)

Gr 3-7 This nonfiction title for older elementary and middle grade readers examines the universe. Each spread highlights a different planet, aerial view, celestial body, or space exploration concept. Rosin's stylized illustrations are appealing, with a slightly muted palette. A light-skinned boy with black hair and a brown-skinned girl with brown hair are featured, but they are not named or made a prominent part of the narrative. The text is packed with information but does not follow the style of a straightforward reference resource. The work succeeds in being thought-provoking rather than comprehensive. This title would be a useful supplementary tool for a classroom planetary research project. Children who are eager to consume space facts will enjoy this title. VERDICT An artful middle grade outer space atlas, which will be enjoyed by curious readers who have an interest in planets and space travel.Mallory Weber, Convent of the Sacred Heart, NY