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Topic: Space KS2

Chapter book

George’s pet pig breaks through the fence into the garden next door – introducing him to his new neighbours: the scientist, Eric, his daughter, Annie, and a super-intelligent computer called Cosmos.

And from that moment George’s life will never be the same again, for Cosmos can open a portal to any point in outer space . . .

Written by science educator Lucy Hawking and her father – the most famous scientist in the world – and illustrated by Garry Parsons, George’s Secret Key to the Universe will take you on a rollercoaster ride through space to discover the mysteries of our universe.

Non-fictionShort story collection

From small steps to giant leaps , A Galaxy of Her Own tells fifty stories of inspirational women who have been fundamental to the story of humans in space, from scientists to astronauts to some surprising roles in between.

From Ada Lovelace in the nineteenth century, to the women behind the Apollo missions, from the astronauts breaking records on the International Space Station to those blazing the way in the race to get to Mars, A Galaxy of Her Own reveals extraordinary stories, champions unsung heroes and celebrates remarkable achievements from around the world.

Written by Libby Jackson, a leading UK expert in human space flight, and illustrated with bold and beautiful artwork from the students of London College of Communication, this is a book to delight and inspire trailblazers of all ages.

Packed full of both amazing female role models and mind-blowing secrets of space travel, A Galaxy of Her Own is guaranteed to make any reader reach for the stars.

Non-fiction

Welcome planet explorers! Did you know that Venus is covered in volcanoes? Have you ever wondered why Mars is red? Well, you’re in luck! Professor Astro Cat and the gang are about to set off on a journey around our solar system–so buckle up, join the tour, and get your learn on!

Non-fictionPicturebook

Why do stars shine? And how was the moon made? Children can blast off into space with this fantastic interactive flap book revealing the secrets of the Universe. Vibrant illustrations and simple explanations combined with over 70 flaps to lift. Each double page covers a different topic, including ‘Glittering galaxies’, ‘On the Moon’ and ‘Space Station’.

Chapter book

It’s one giant leap for all boy-kind in Frank Cottrell Boyce’s out-of-this-world story: Cosmic .

Liam is too big for his boots. And his football strip. And his school blazer. But being super-sized height-wise has its advantages: he’s the only eleven-year-old to ever ride the G-force-defying Cosmic rollercoaster – or to be offered the chance to drive a Porsche. Long-legged Liam makes a giant leap for boy-kind by competing with a group of adults for the chance to go into space. Is Liam the best boy for the job? Sometimes being big isn’t all about being a grown-up.

Chapter book

How amazing would it be to have a dad who’s an astronaut?

Rocket launches, zero gravity, and flying through space like a superhero! Jamie Drake’s dad is orbiting the Earth in the International Space Station and Jamie ought to think it’s cool but he just really misses him…

Hanging out at his local observatory, Jamie picks up a strange signal on his phone. It looks like alien life is getting closer to home. But space is a dangerous place and when his dad’s mission goes wrong, can Jamie prove that he’s a hero too?

A cosmic adventure for anyone who’s ever looked at the stars, from the author of The Many Worlds of Albie Bright.

Cover illustration by Matt Saunders.

Chapter book

From multi-award-winning Neil Gaiman comes a spectacularly silly, mind-bendingly clever, brilliantly bonkers adventure – with lip-smackingly gorgeous illustrations by Chris Riddell.

Mum’s away. Dad’s in charge. There’s no milk. So Dad saves the day by going to buy some.

Really, that’s all that happens. Very boring. YAAAAAAAAAWN.

There are absolutely none of the following inside: GLOBBY GREEN ALIENS! INTERGALACTIC POLICE! PIRATES! And most definitely NOT a time-travelling hot-air balloon piloted by the brilliant Professor Steg…

Best space books for children

The topic of space is always a big hit with primary school children, who love to learn facts about the solar system and imagine the infinite possibilities of what lies beyond our galaxy. In KS2 Science, children learn about the Earth, Sun and Moon and how their movement affects our days, nights and seasons. Many children learn about the planets, space exploration and famous astronauts too. Blast off into the topic with our list of the best books for children about space.

This list is aimed at children aged 7-11. For recommended space books for younger children, try our KS1 Space Booklist.

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