To Mars! by Gina Bellisario –ESSENTIAL

Bellisario, Gina To Mars! 24 pgs. Millbrook (Lerner), 2017.  $19.99.  Content: G.

This informational book is told in a story format. When a young girl named Avery finds out that her class is going to learn about Mars, she takes an imaginary journey. She is suddenly an astronaut on Mars, jumping high, meeting rover, and learning tons of cool facts. Large pages feature bright and well-drawn illustrations that can easily be shared with a class as a read aloud.

I really like this format; I find that students enjoy learning facts while being told an interesting story. Younger grade teachers would use this series extensively if I had it in the library. This book would be the perfect accompaniment to some videos about the rovers that are currently on mars. It has cover appeal and would be chosen and could be read by a first or second grader on their own.

EL (K-3) –ESSENTIAL 

Reviewer: Stephanie Elementary School Librarian & Author.