Crisp, large photos of Mars and space are a big draw in this installment in the Destination Mars series (6 titles). The author clearly explains why scientists are searching for water on our sometimes-closest neighbor planet as well as some of the compelling evidence they've found thanks to orbiters and surface rovers g., geological features that resemble river beds and elements in the Martian soil that suggest the presence of water. All of this information culminates in an exploration of challenges human settlers on Mars would face trying to use that water and how essential that water would be to the success of a colony. While a touch dry, the focused topic, eye-catching images, and helpful back matter will be appreciated by students interested in how much intensive preparation and research a trip to Mars entails.