
The Earth: One-of-a-Kind Planet
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$9.95 - $19.95Reviews
Kirkus Reviews
"The universe brags about one of its best and favorite parts.
Depicted as human with lightly toned skin and billows of black hair a-glimmer with stars, Universe squires two wisecracking E Ts past the planets (“a pretty neat system, if I do say so myself”), then recaps the history of this one from “hot, bubbly, gassy mess” through the development of life to the appearances of satellites and pizza. In simple language she explains the roles oceans, the water cycle, and our planet’s placement in the “Goldilocks” zone played in the appearance of us. If she sounds a note of warning about the need to fix pollution and other hazards to life, it only briefly dims her conviction that we will indeed step up. Heavenly bodies, microorganisms, and, on later pages, racially diverse groups of children sport bright, googly eyes and benevolent smiles in the cartoon illustrations. In co-published tours that echo the upbeat tone, Universe presents viewers with basic introductions to The Moon (our “Small-but-Mighty Neighbor”),the life cycles of a “gazillion” Stars, and our own “Shining Star,” The Sun. Each outing ends with general directions for a relevant activity (for Earth, creating a terrarium) and, injecting the Art into STEAM, opens with an earnest poem.
With its companions, breezy flyovers with light but sound informational payloads. (glossary) (Informational picture book. 7-9.)"
Booklist
"The Earth highlights unique features that let our planet support life and instructs readers in how to create a terrarium. Each volume is narrated by the Universe, which is presented as a proud parent bragging about its offspring. Additionally, two wise-cracking alien punsters contribute bits of trivia, introduce new vocabulary, pose goofy or thoughtful questions, and keep the narrative flowing. The cartoon-like illustrations align closely with the text, illuminating abstract concepts, and the kid-friendly text will attract beginning readers."
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Teacher Resources

Classroom Guides
For educators! Download a packet of essential questions, mentor texts, and Common Core State Standards to use in classrooms and libraries.
Classroom Guide
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Detailed Book Description
Earth is our home, but how much do we really know about our planet?
Quite a lot! In The Earth: One-of-a-Kind Planet, the narrator, who just happens to be the universe, explains where Earth is located in the solar system, how Earth was created, how life evolved on Earth, and more. Universe uses a friendly, relatable tone to engage young readers and explain complex science content in ways kids can understand and relate to. And the alien commentators are hilarious for both kids and adults!
Perfect as a read aloud or for beginner readers, this book includes a hands-on activity, glossary, and a poem!
Hardcover, $19.95 9781619309814 |
Paperback, $9.95 9781619309845 |