Casting Shadows: Solar and Lunar Eclipses with The Planetary Society

Gr 2-4–This accessible book from the Planetary Society’s chief scientist explores solar and lunar eclipses. Text covers the cause of an eclipse along with explanations of the various possible types, the movement of the Earth and Moon, phases of the Moon, and how shadows are formed. Large, clear photos with helpful captions show total, partial, and annular eclipses as well as crowds viewing the phenomena. Diagrams of the necessary positions of the Earth, Moon, and Sun support the text, as do sidebars on syzygy, Copernicus, and even eclipses on Mars. Safety warnings remind readers to use special protective glasses or pinhole viewers to watch a solar eclipse. A glossary and suggestions for further reading round out the back matter. Bill Nye’s opening note is only the first incredible detail that will captivate the attention and imagination of young readers. This information is an especially timely addition to collections due to the number of eclipses that will occur in 2024.