Space has always fascinated children, with its vastness, stars, planets, and endless possibilities for adventure. Reading space-themed books is a wonderful way to ignite their curiosity and introduce them to the wonders of the universe.
In this post, I’m sharing my top space books for kids, organized by age group. I’ve also included fun activities and questions to engage young minds. Let me know which space book you and your children enjoy the most!
Table of Content
- Why Read Books About Space?
- The Role of Books in Teaching Kids about Space
- 11 Space Books For Children
- What Space Book(s) Are You Going To Read Later?
Why Read Books About Space?
Space books captivate children’s imaginations while introducing them to important scientific concepts.
From learning about planets and astronauts to exploring the mysteries of black holes and galaxies, space-themed books help foster curiosity about science, technology, and exploration. These stories also encourage kids to think big, dream about the unknown, and embrace the idea of endless possibilities.
The Role of Books in Teaching Kids about Space
Books about space can teach children fundamental science concepts while keeping their interest with engaging narratives. Whether it’s learning about the solar system, gravity, or the concept of infinity, space books provide a gateway into scientific discovery. They often feature diverse characters and relatable adventures, which help children understand that anyone can be an explorer.
These books also highlight the importance of teamwork, curiosity, and perseverance—qualities essential for space exploration and life itself.
How to Use Books about Space with Children
Here are some tips for making space books even more engaging for kids:
- Ask Open-Ended Questions: After reading, ask children how they would feel if they were astronauts exploring space. Encourage them to think about which planet they’d like to visit or what they’d pack for a space journey. In a classroom, Turn and Talk can get everyone excited about space!
- Engage in Space-Themed Activities: Extend the fun with activities like creating a solar system model, stargazing, or making moon rocks. You can also have children draw their favorite planet or make up their own constellations.
- Refer Back to the Books: During science lessons or space-themed events, refer back to the characters or lessons from the books. Whether you’re watching a space documentary or looking through a telescope, relate it to the stories you’ve shared.
- Involve Other Caregivers: Share space-themed books with grandparents, babysitters, or other caregivers. Discussing these books together can help deepen a child’s interest in science and exploration.
11 Space Books For Children
Younger Children (Ages 3-6)
#1 “There’s No Place Like Space: All About Our Solar System” by Tish Rabe
In this fun and educational book from the Cat in the Hat’s Learning Library series, children are taken on a journey through space. The Cat in the Hat introduces young readers to the planets in our solar system, explaining fascinating facts in a fun, rhyming way.
This book introduces children to basic astronomy and the solar system. With its easy-to-understand rhymes and engaging illustrations, it helps young readers grasp the vastness of space while keeping the subject light and entertaining. It encourages curiosity about science and exploration.
- Activity Idea:
- Solar System Craft: Have children make their own solar system mobile, using paper and string to represent the planets in order from the sun.
- Questions To Ask:
- What are some fun facts you learned about the planets from the book?
- Why is the sun important in our solar system?
- Which planet would you want to visit and why?
#2 “8 Little Planets: A Solar System Book for Kids” by Chris Ferrie
This adorable board book introduces young readers to the eight planets of our solar system, using vibrant cutouts and fun rhymes. Each planet has its own personality, making it an engaging way for kids to learn about space.
This book blends education with creativity, teaching kids basic facts about the solar system in an age-appropriate and visually appealing way. The cutouts and rhymes bring the planets to life, encouraging children to learn about the universe through engaging storytelling.
- Activity Idea:
- Planet Personality Craft: Have children draw or create their favorite planet and give it a fun personality, just like in the book.
- Questions To Ask:
- What is your favorite planet from the book, and why?
- How do the rhymes help you learn about the planets?
- What is one thing you learned about the sun and its role in the solar system?
#3 “There Was a Black Hole that Swallowed the Universe” by Chris Ferrie
This humorous and rhyming picture book tells the tale of a black hole that swallows everything in the universe, from galaxies to stars, creating a fun and engaging way to learn about space and black holes.
This book introduces children to complex concepts like black holes and the vastness of the universe in a playful and humorous way. The cumulative, rhyming text keeps the pace fun and light, while the illustrations provide a sense of the immense scale of space.
- Activity Idea:
- Universe in a Jar: Have children make their own “universe in a jar” using glitter and small star-shaped items, representing galaxies and stars.
- Questions To Ask:
- What did the black hole swallow in the book?
- How does the book make learning about space funny?
- What is a black hole, and what makes it so powerful?
Lower Elementary Children (Ages 7-9)
#4 “Max Goes to the Moon” by Jeffrey Bennett
Max the dog embarks on an exciting adventure to the moon with a young boy named Tori. Together, they explore space, learn about science, and inspire others to think about future space exploration.
This book blends adventure with real scientific concepts, teaching children about the possibilities of space travel, the moon, and the potential for humans to live on other planets. It inspires a love for science and discovery, while Max the dog adds an element of fun.
- Activity Idea:
- Moon Surface Exploration: Create a mock “moon surface” with sand or flour, and have kids “explore” using small toy astronauts or animals.
- Questions To Ask:
- Why did Max and Tori want to go to the moon?
- What did Max learn about space and the moon?
- How would you feel if you could visit the moon?
#5 “Mae Among the Stars” by Roda Ahmed
This inspirational book tells the story of Mae Jemison, the first African American woman to travel in space. As a child, Mae dreamed of going to space, and through hard work and perseverance, she achieved her goal.
The book highlights themes of determination, dreaming big, and breaking barriers. Mae’s journey teaches children that no dream is too big and that with passion and persistence, they can achieve anything they set their minds to.
- Activity Idea:
- Space Exploration Research: Have children research Mae Jemison or another astronaut, learning about their life and space missions.
- Questions To Ask:
- What inspired Mae to become an astronaut?
- How did Mae achieve her dream of going to space?
- What dreams do you have for the future?
Check Out Summer Mindfulness Books and More!
#6 “Moon! Earth’s Best Friend” by Stacy McAnulty
This playful and informative book is narrated by the moon itself, as it shares fun facts about its relationship with Earth, its phases, and its role in the solar system.
The book presents scientific facts in a humorous, engaging way, allowing children to learn about the moon’s role while also feeling a sense of connection to Earth’s “best friend.” The moon’s personality adds a fun twist to astronomy education.
- Activity Idea:
- Moon Phases Craft: Use Oreos or paper cutouts to demonstrate the different phases of the moon.
- Questions To Ask:
- How does the moon help Earth?
- What are the different phases of the moon?
- Why do you think the moon calls Earth its best friend?
#7 “If You Had Your Birthday Party on the Moon” by Joyce Lapin
This imaginative book takes readers on a fun journey where they imagine what it would be like to have their birthday party on the moon. It blends scientific facts with playful elements to show how different life would be on the moon, from jumping higher to blowing out birthday candles in zero gravity.
The book introduces children to the differences between Earth and the moon, using the context of a birthday party to explore the effects of low gravity, atmosphere, and space travel. It promotes curiosity about space while making science accessible through a relatable scenario.
- Activity Idea:
- Moon Birthday Craft: Have children design a birthday party invitation for a party on the moon, thinking about what they’d need to celebrate in space.
- Questions To Ask:
- What would be the most fun part of having a birthday on the moon?
- How is the moon different from Earth when it comes to things like gravity and air?
- What challenges would you face if you had a party on the moon?
Upper Elementary Children (Ages 9-11)
#8 “The Darkest Dark” by Chris Hadfield
Written by astronaut Chris Hadfield, this autobiographical picture book tells the story of young Chris overcoming his fear of the dark. After watching the moon landing, Chris realizes that the dark is where the wonders of space are found, sparking his passion for becoming an astronaut.
The book explores themes of fear, courage, and wonder. It encourages children to face their fears, using Chris’s personal story to show that bravery can lead to incredible discoveries. It also inspires a love of space exploration by connecting the stars and the universe to the darkness.
- Activity Idea:
- Darkness Art: Let children draw pictures of space at night, showing how the dark can be a place of wonder and adventure, not just fear.
- Questions To Ask:
- Why was young Chris afraid of the dark?
- How did watching the moon landing change the way Chris saw the dark?
- What can you learn about facing fears from this story?
#9 “Astrophysics for Young People in a Hurry” by Neil deGrasse Tyson
This book is a simplified and engaging introduction to astrophysics, written by renowned astrophysicist Neil deGrasse Tyson. It explains complex scientific concepts in a way that is accessible to young readers, covering topics like dark matter, black holes, and the expansion of the universe.
The book focuses on making difficult scientific topics understandable and fun for children. It encourages curiosity about the universe and promotes the importance of science literacy. Tyson’s engaging tone makes astrophysics exciting and relatable.
- Activity Idea:
- Astrophysics Vocabulary: Create a vocabulary game where children match space terms with their definitions based on what they’ve learned from the book.
- Questions To Ask:
- What is one thing you learned about astrophysics from the book?
- How does Neil deGrasse Tyson make complicated science easier to understand?
- What are dark matter and black holes, and why are they important in space?
#10 “The Mysteries of the Universe” by Will Gater
This beautifully illustrated DK book explores some of the greatest mysteries of space, from distant galaxies and black holes to the birth of stars. It’s filled with stunning images and accessible explanations, making it a perfect introduction to the wonders of the universe.
The book emphasizes the vastness and beauty of the universe, introducing children to the unknown and inspiring a sense of wonder. It covers key space topics in an engaging way, helping readers appreciate the complexity and majesty of the cosmos.
- Activity Idea:
- Stargazing Night: Plan a simple stargazing activity, teaching children to observe the night sky and spot constellations or planets.
- Questions To Ask:
- What mysteries of the universe did you find most interesting in the book?
- How do the illustrations help you imagine the vastness of space?
- What is one thing you learned about galaxies or black holes?
#11 “Knowledge Encyclopedia Space!: The Universe as You’ve Never Seen it Before” by DK
This DK encyclopedia offers a detailed look at the universe, covering everything from the planets in our solar system to distant galaxies. It’s filled with striking 3D illustrations and in-depth information, making it an ideal resource for young space enthusiasts.
The book covers a wide range of space-related topics in a visually stunning and informative way. It encourages children to explore the universe and fosters a love for learning through its comprehensive coverage of space, planets, stars, and more.
- Activity Idea:
- 3D Space Model: Use craft materials to build a 3D model of the solar system or a specific space phenomenon, inspired by the book’s illustrations.
- Questions To Ask:
- What new things did you learn about the universe from the encyclopedia?
- What is your favorite planet or space phenomenon, and why?
- What part of space would you want to explore if you could?
What Space Book(s) Are You Going To Read Later?
Space books for kids provide a great opportunity to blend science, adventure, and imagination. By introducing your children to these stories, you can inspire them to look up at the stars with wonder and curiosity.
Which space-themed books are you planning to explore? Tag me on Instagram @LittleYellowStarTeaches and share your favorites!
Happy reading!
Prima at LittleYellowStar
* * *
Other Blog Posts That You Might Enjoy:
- 15 Minutes Daily Social And Emotional Learning Activities For The Classroom (SEL Made Easy)
- How To Offer Growth Mindset Praise Effectively
- 3 Activities To Introduce Growth Mindset
