cover image Punk Science: The Intergalactic, Supermassive Space Book

Punk Science: The Intergalactic, Supermassive Space Book

Jon Milton, illus. by Dan Hope. Pan Macmillan (IPG/Trafalgar Sq., dist.), $7.99 trade paper (96p) ISBN 978-1-4472-5384-6

Games, puzzles, quizzes, and comic strip sequences spice up this irreverent introduction to space travel, the solar system, and the universe beyond, published in conjunction with the Science Museum in London. More concise than “supermassive,” this overview from self-described punk scientists Milton and Hope blends information about how rockets work, the planets, and the space race with a jokey tone that should keep kids laughing, even when it’s trying too hard (“Galileo performed a really simple experiment that you can try right now. Well, not right now... you’ll need to read how to do it first”). Hope’s scrawled line drawings combine with b&w images, bulleted lists, and games that include word searches and mazes to create a playful, interactive atmosphere. A good choice to keep space-loving kids occupied on car trips, family vacations, and other strictly planetary journeys. Ages 7–up. (July)