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Luna: The Science and Stories of Our Moon
Explore the moon from all angles, from its place in the night sky and our solar system to its role in shaping human history and culture.
Through gorgeous illustrations and photography, see the moon like you've never seen it before. Read myths of the moon's creation from around the world. Discover the science of how the moon actually formed. Learn all about the moon's effects on Earth's tides and imagine what the world would be like without them. Take a look at moon-men hoaxes from history and find out how scientists may actually colonize Earth's closest neighbor.
Weaving together science and myth, history and technology, Luna is perfect for anyone who's ever imagined walking on the moon, wondered about the night sky, or been captivated by a thrilling werewolf story.
Through gorgeous illustrations and photography, see the moon like you've never seen it before. Read myths of the moon's creation from around the world. Discover the science of how the moon actually formed. Learn all about the moon's effects on Earth's tides and imagine what the world would be like without them. Take a look at moon-men hoaxes from history and find out how scientists may actually colonize Earth's closest neighbor.
Weaving together science and myth, history and technology, Luna is perfect for anyone who's ever imagined walking on the moon, wondered about the night sky, or been captivated by a thrilling werewolf story.
- GenresNonfiction
64 pages, Hardcover
Published June 11, 2019
1 person is currently reading
31 people want to read
About the author
David A. Aguilar
18 books10 followersDavid A. Aguilar is past Director of Science Information and Public Outreach at the Harvard-Smithsonian Center for Astrophysics in Cambridge, MA. A naturalist, astronomer, author and space artist, David’s expertise lies in showing us the fascinating connections between the universe and ourselves.
In 2015 he joined NASA's New Horizons Mission team to lead special media coverage for the historic PLUTO Flyby.
He is author and illustrator of seven National Geographic Society and three Random House Penguin books on space science.
2017's "7 Wonders of the Solar System" has garnered 2 book awards from the Nat'l Science Teachers Assoc, and the New York Public Library.
Other titles include: "Cosmic Catastrophes: Seven Ways to Destroy a Planet Like Earth"; ALIEN WORLDS" which examines just how surreal alien life may be throughout the Universe; "SPACE ENCYCLOPEDIA" winner of the 2008 VOYA (Voice of Youth) Award; 13 PLANETS - winner of the 2011 Eureka Gold Award for best science book for kids; and the upcoming "7 Wonders of the Milky Way" for release in June 2018.
His books and space art have appeared on the BBC, the “UNIVERSE” series on the History Channel, ABC Nightly News, Time magazine, US News & World Report CNN, NY Times, USA Today, National Geographic, Sky & Telescope, Astronomy, and Scientific American.
He is past Director of Fiske Planetarium and Science Center and the producer of the Science Discovery Program at University of Colorado Boulder; past Marketing Communications Director at Ball Aerospace and Technologies Corporation; and former Marketing Director for PBS’s Emmy-winning NOVA series, Evolution.
He is a Smithsonian Scholar Enrichment Lecturer and Harvard Expert Study Tour Leader. In 2010, asteroid 1990DA was named to honor his contributions to science education.
David and wife Shirley reside just outside Aspen, CO. For more information please flyby our site at: www.aspenskies.com or davidaguilar.org
In 2015 he joined NASA's New Horizons Mission team to lead special media coverage for the historic PLUTO Flyby.
He is author and illustrator of seven National Geographic Society and three Random House Penguin books on space science.
2017's "7 Wonders of the Solar System" has garnered 2 book awards from the Nat'l Science Teachers Assoc, and the New York Public Library.
Other titles include: "Cosmic Catastrophes: Seven Ways to Destroy a Planet Like Earth"; ALIEN WORLDS" which examines just how surreal alien life may be throughout the Universe; "SPACE ENCYCLOPEDIA" winner of the 2008 VOYA (Voice of Youth) Award; 13 PLANETS - winner of the 2011 Eureka Gold Award for best science book for kids; and the upcoming "7 Wonders of the Milky Way" for release in June 2018.
His books and space art have appeared on the BBC, the “UNIVERSE” series on the History Channel, ABC Nightly News, Time magazine, US News & World Report CNN, NY Times, USA Today, National Geographic, Sky & Telescope, Astronomy, and Scientific American.
He is past Director of Fiske Planetarium and Science Center and the producer of the Science Discovery Program at University of Colorado Boulder; past Marketing Communications Director at Ball Aerospace and Technologies Corporation; and former Marketing Director for PBS’s Emmy-winning NOVA series, Evolution.
He is a Smithsonian Scholar Enrichment Lecturer and Harvard Expert Study Tour Leader. In 2010, asteroid 1990DA was named to honor his contributions to science education.
David and wife Shirley reside just outside Aspen, CO. For more information please flyby our site at: www.aspenskies.com or davidaguilar.org
Ratings & Reviews
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Displaying 1 - 9 of 9 reviews
June 18, 2019
I was young when America landed on the Moon and mankind made that enormous step onto the surface of the round orb that has lit our nights and been a mystery to man. It hasn't lost its fascination to people today, and recounting those major steps of space exploration and achievement never grow old. Nor does this old knowledge acquired pale into insignificance with each new discovery.
We delight in knowledge. We delight in knowing our closest astro neighbor. We delight in discovery.
The book Luna takes knowledge and exploration in a new and different direction for young readers and is designed to fascinate.
The science that we know is incorporated with the ageless or timeless stories that pervade literary history. Beginning with the ancients and others who worshiped the moon, there are stories, fables, myths, folklore, beliefs focused on the moon. Luna: The Science and Stories of Our Moon doesn't mix them up or muddy the Luna-scape. It just presents information, history, science, and also the stories.
Keep in mind that as with most National Geographic publications an "old Earth" is assumed or the books are predicated on that assumption or belief. As one who doesn't hold to the "old Earth" idea, I can still enjoy, appreciate, and learn from this fine publication.
DISCLOSURE: I received a complimentary copy to facilitate this review. Opinions are mine, alone and are freely given.
We delight in knowledge. We delight in knowing our closest astro neighbor. We delight in discovery.
The book Luna takes knowledge and exploration in a new and different direction for young readers and is designed to fascinate.
The science that we know is incorporated with the ageless or timeless stories that pervade literary history. Beginning with the ancients and others who worshiped the moon, there are stories, fables, myths, folklore, beliefs focused on the moon. Luna: The Science and Stories of Our Moon doesn't mix them up or muddy the Luna-scape. It just presents information, history, science, and also the stories.
Keep in mind that as with most National Geographic publications an "old Earth" is assumed or the books are predicated on that assumption or belief. As one who doesn't hold to the "old Earth" idea, I can still enjoy, appreciate, and learn from this fine publication.
DISCLOSURE: I received a complimentary copy to facilitate this review. Opinions are mine, alone and are freely given.
July 20, 2019
This is a beautifully put together book that covers just about everything a young reader might want to know about the moon. Beginning with its theoretical creation and evolution, and ending with projects kids can do, including making a 3-D of lunar craters, this book is chockablock with more information about the moon. Each topic is age-appropriately informative and includes full-color illustrations or photographs that compliment the text. I particularly liked that Aguilar covered things like the different names for the moon (supermoon, harvest moon, strawberry moon), and talked about some of the different cultures whose festivals and religious holidays are determined by the moon. Another favorite chapter was on the great hoaxes and other mysteries surrounding the moon, all of which were new to me. I did like that Aguilar invites readers to explore the moon with a telescope, suggesting best viewing times and including a map of the moon to help understand where and what different places on the surface are. This is followed by an in-depth look at the moon's most prominent features. The moon continually fascinates us and this is the kind of book that curious kids will return to again and again, and each time they will find something they didn't notice before, so the in the end, young readers will gain a great deal of new information about the moon and its relationship with earth. This would be an excellent addition to home, school, and classroom libraries, or just a great book for kids interested in space.
June 16, 2019
We all know the moon is 239,000 miles away from earth and is also one-quarter the size of earth. We also know that the Apollo Program sent seven lunar missions to the moon and 12 astronauts walked on its surface. But, what is it that you may not know about the moon? Did you know that the moon is not a planet but a satellite that orbits the earth? If have a unique interest in learning about the moon, this guide is dedicated to all things moonish.
The dark side of the moon also has a near side and we still don’t know why the two faces of the moon are so different. In our solar systems there are at least 181 moons orbiting the planets. There are some very interesting myths about the moon in this guide that include the ancient Greeks, China and even werewolves. There are plenty of fascinating facts along with folklore for readers to pause and take notice.
Young readers that are fascinated by the moon will find plenty of information dedicated to the moons changing phases, its affects on the tides, lunar eclipses and so much more. Parents and teachers will enjoy sharing this with eager learners. There are plenty of photos and illustrations to engage and educate. The back pages share how readers can make their own moon, craters and find resources so they can explore all things moonish.
The dark side of the moon also has a near side and we still don’t know why the two faces of the moon are so different. In our solar systems there are at least 181 moons orbiting the planets. There are some very interesting myths about the moon in this guide that include the ancient Greeks, China and even werewolves. There are plenty of fascinating facts along with folklore for readers to pause and take notice.
Young readers that are fascinated by the moon will find plenty of information dedicated to the moons changing phases, its affects on the tides, lunar eclipses and so much more. Parents and teachers will enjoy sharing this with eager learners. There are plenty of photos and illustrations to engage and educate. The back pages share how readers can make their own moon, craters and find resources so they can explore all things moonish.
July 9, 2019
We received a free physical copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts and opinions are our own.
A fascinating look at the science and stories of our moon.
Learn how the moon was formed, why it orbits the Earth, and how it affects our tides. See how it compares to Earth and to other moons and planets in our solar system! Learn the names and phases of the moons, and even see the top ten coolest sites that can be seen on the moon using a telescope!
A few moon myths and mythological moon creatures have been included as well. This educational book has everything you might want to know about Earth's biggest satellite. There is enough information and text to keep readers busy both day (and night!) and plenty of awesome images to keep them visually stimulated as well!
This review was originally shared on Lazy Day Literature
A fascinating look at the science and stories of our moon.
Learn how the moon was formed, why it orbits the Earth, and how it affects our tides. See how it compares to Earth and to other moons and planets in our solar system! Learn the names and phases of the moons, and even see the top ten coolest sites that can be seen on the moon using a telescope!
A few moon myths and mythological moon creatures have been included as well. This educational book has everything you might want to know about Earth's biggest satellite. There is enough information and text to keep readers busy both day (and night!) and plenty of awesome images to keep them visually stimulated as well!
This review was originally shared on Lazy Day Literature
June 27, 2019
An illuminating look at our awe inspiring and fascinating moon! In depth science, cool facts and myths, stunning pictures, and an aesthetically pleasing layout will captivate and inspire young readers and have them eagerly turning pages.
June 28, 2019
I always like it when a book makes it easy to take the step from reading to doing. As summer approaches and we tend to want to go out and view the night sky, this is one book that will prove to be a helpful guide.
For the full review: https://twobookwormsblog.wordpress.co...
For the full review: https://twobookwormsblog.wordpress.co...
July 15, 2019
4.5 stars
August 7, 2019
This book has a lot of good content, but I felt like the presentation was dry.
Here's my full review: https://agoodreid.blogspot.com/2019/0...
Here's my full review: https://agoodreid.blogspot.com/2019/0...
December 21, 2022
Didn't realize this was a kids book haha, but still enjoyed reading through it.
Displaying 1 - 9 of 9 reviews