Solar Power

Children's Literature - Jamaica Johnson Conner

"What would happen if the sun stopped shining?" These types of reflective "what if" questions are highlighted in this title, which is part of the "World About Us" series. The definition, elements, benefits, and future of solar power are thoroughly explored and explained. For example, a popular method for harnessing the sun's energy includes using mirrors to access solar energy, to power computers and solar backpacks, to power solar lights, and to power modes of transportation, houses, and schools. All of the explanations about creating electricity from the sun's energy and sunlight and storing the sun's power are written on two levels of text: one for beginning readers and one for the more advanced reader. A fun experiment using painted paper plates to illustrate the power of the sun is suggested. Levete tells the reader to paint five paper plates different colors, and two of those colors must be white and black. The reader is then instructed to leave the plates outside and return later to feel the temperature of the different plates. Based on the experiment, the author asks the reader to make an application: "which color is best to wear on a hot day?" This fun experiment—mixed with practical visuals, valuable reference tools, and differentiated explanations—makes this title a delightful addition to the science curriculum.