Children's Science Book Database

There’s No Place Like Space

The book mainly just lists a bunch facts about space. It doesn't focus on finding things out. It does have a few scientific questions that are then answered immediately afterwords.
  • Author: Tish Rabe
  • Illustrator: Aristides Ruiz
  • Year Published: 1999
  • ISBN: 9780679991151

Science Topics

Minimum Suggested Grade Level

Maximum Suggested Grade Level

Summary

Follow the Cat in the Hat, Thing 1, and Thing 2 as they travel through space and state basic facts about the planets in our solar system as well as the sun and the moon. Constellations are also talked about and scientific ponderings such as why we don't get dizzy if the Earth is spinning.

Evaluation

  • Appropriateness: High
  • Authority: Low
  • Accuracy: Medium
  • Liteary Artistry: High
  • Appearance: Medium

Questions

Does the book foster development of processes?

The book mainly just lists a bunch facts about space. It doesn't focus on finding things out. It does have a few scientific questions that are then answered immediately afterwords.

Does the book provide an opportunity for children to ask and answer their own questions?

I wouldn't think there are a lot opportunities for kids to ask their own questions. Kids are probably more likely to look at the pictures and be amused by the rhyming scheme rather than the content, because the content is shallow.

Does the book encourage children to think for themselves?

The book is more focused on stating the facts rather than getting kids to think. It doesn't really have language that encourages kids to think about what they are reading. The language used doesn't discourage readers from thinking, but it definitely doesn't encourage either.

Is the science topic addressed in ways that are appropriate to the lesson?

I think it is. This could be a book used to spark interest in the topic of space but should probably not be used as a fact book or place to get information about space.

Is the content based on sound scientific principles? Is it accurate?

The copy of the book I read was not up to date. It said that Pluto was a planet. There is a newer version of the book that eliminates Pluto due to its status as  a dwarf planet.

Does the book distinguish between fact and fiction?

The book welds fact and fiction together. For example, the Cat in the Hat would not be able to survive the coldness of Neptune or Pluto with just a space suit. Also the Things would not be able to take their helmet off on Mars. The book isn't realistic in illustrations.

Are the illustrations clear and accurate?

The illustrations are clear, but not accurate. For example, the characters would not be able to just stand right next to the sun and they wouldn't be that size. These illustrations were drawn for entertainment, not for accuracy.

Is the book written at the level of your students?

No, this book is written for kids younger than my students. I would say this book is for kindergarten through 2nd (or pre-k if you read aloud). My students are in 4th grade.

Is there a multicultural component? Is it free from stereotyping?

It is free from stereotyping, probably because there isn't a multicultural component. The book features the Cat in the Hat, Thing 1, Thing 2, and two white kids.

Is the book free from gender bias?

From what I can tell the book is free from gender bias. There is both a girl and a boy as characters who explore space. I didn't notice any actions or illustrations that made me think there was a bias of any sort.

Does the book show the close association between science and other disciplines?

The book does not show close association between science and other disciplines. It is slightly harder to do with space science, but it is possible. There aren't any tie-ins to literacy, math, or social studies.

Does the book present a positive attitude toward science and technology?

It presents a neutral attitude toward science and technology. The characters are excited to explore space, but the rocket is very cartoon-y (due to being a Dr. Seuss book). The same can be said for the magnifying glass and telescopes in the book.