Explore the planet Mars in the second book in this new, nonfiction Level 1 Ready-to-Read series about the universe that’s perfect for kids who love science and space! Do you see that red dot in the night sky? It’s Mars! Discover the exciting surprises about the Red Planet in this cosmic, fact-filled Level 1 Ready-to-Read. PreS-Gr 2-Newly independent readers will gain an understanding of Mars in this second entry to a Level 1 series on the universe. Bauer begins by asking children to imagine their own journey to the red planet. The trip would take at least six months! She further engages them with the kinds of facts that kids love: Mars is a planet that has two moons, blue sunsets, a canyon as wide as the entire United States, extreme dust storms, and ground that is potentially poisonous. Some kids may be able to read the additional content that follows the main text, while others may turn to an adult for support. A glossary with a pronunciation guide is included. Colorful, playful illustrations and simple text make this a pleasing introduction to outer space. VERDICT A beginning reader that is an excellent addition to any collection of STEM materials.-Gloria Koster, formerly at West Sch., New Canaan, CTα(c) Copyright 2011. Library Journals LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of Media Source, Inc. No redistribution permitted. "Engages [readers] with the kinds of facts that kids love: Mars is a planet that has two moons, blue sunsets, a canyon as wide as the entire United States, extreme dust storms, and ground that is potentially poisonous. . . . Colorful, playful ­llustrations and simple text make this a pleasing introduction to outer space." -- School Library Journal ― November 1, 2021 Marion Dane Bauer is the author of many books for young readers, including the Newbery Honor book On My Honor and the Coretta Scott King Book Illustrator Award winner The Stuff of Stars . She lives in St. Paul, Minnesota, and can be reached at MarionDaneBauer.com. John Wallace’s formal training was not in illustration, but rather theology, which he received at University of Cambridge. However, he always loved drawing, and one of his early jobs was as a newspaper cartoonist. In his children’s book illustrations, he is particularly inspired by what he calls “the gooniness” of young schoolchildren. John lives in Broadstairs, England.