Jupiter

Children's Literature

Jupiter is by far the largest planet in our solar system. In fact, if the other eight planets in the solar system were combined they would be about half the size of Jupiter. A gaseous planet, Jupiter is surrounded by a toxic atmosphere of methane and hydrogen. Jupiter is a planet with a magnetic field far stronger than that of Earth. Jupiter also has numerous moons, some of which are larger than Pluto. A giant red spot adorns Jupiter's surface. Rather than a decoration, that red spot is a huge hurricane-like storm that has raged on the planet for centuries. Author Gregory Vogt traces these, and many others, facts regarding the giant planet known as Jupiter. Vogt takes a complicated subject such as Jupiter and presents it in a manner that will be readily approachable for children. Vogt, who has authored many other selections in "The Galaxy" series to which this book belongs once again provides a workable scientific text for younger readers. The text is enhanced by a fine selection of photographs that show Jupiter and its moons. This is a one of the better books in this fine series and one that readers will gain from. 2000, Bridgestone Books, Romaneck

School Library Journal

Gr 3-4-Brief but meaty introductions to the outer planets, combining seldom-seen color photos with single-page "chapters" of text. Though sometimes oversimplified, the information is a lively mix of basic facts, nonstandard background material, and recent discoveries about each planet's rings, atmosphere, physical features, and selected moons. Special terms are defined in appended glossaries, and generally in context, too; sizes, revolution and rotation periods, and distances are given both in the narrative and in accompanying charts. Each volume closes with an easily reproduced science demonstration, plus two-to-four-item lists of books, addresses, and Web sites. Though the photos have a cramped, over-enlarged look-probably due to the books' small trim size-such shots as a radiophotograph of Jupiter showing its massive magnetic fields and Hubble Space Telescope views of Pluto before and after computer enhancement will grab the attention of young space enthusiasts. Consider these above-average titles as alternatives-or better yet, companions-to equivalent volumes of "True Book" series updates (Children's).-John Peters, New York Copyright 2000 Cahners Business Information.|