The Sun Is Kind of a Big Deal

Comics artist and author Seluk (Heart and Brain) educates readers about the sun’s very important job. In bold, bright graphics, Seluk introduces the sun and planets looking a bit like chatty Gobstoppers. The sun’s star status is apparent, from its dark sunglasses to its fawning fans: “Could I have your autograph? It’s for, um, my moon, Callisto,” Jupiter requests. The sun gives light to Earth, provides warmth, and “helps bring us rain and grow plants to produce the oxygen we breathe,” Seluk explains. Using playful analogies, visual gags, and infographics, the author presents key concepts in astronomy: planets are seen moving around the sun on a racetrack, and another spread clearly shows how Earth’s temperatures range because of varying degrees of direct sunlight. It’s a playful, upbeat introduction to the galaxy, with a brief exploration of more distant planets and stars. Ages 4–8. (Oct.)