A Few Beautiful Minutes: Experiencing a Solar Eclipse

Fox pens an ode to a total solar eclipse, a moment when the moon "steal the sun's glory/ ...for a few beautiful minutes." Le creates vignettes of children of varying skin tones making paper sun viewers that will allow them to safely regard the eclipse, as well as sweeping landscapes from which many species encounter the spectacle. As the sky darkens, wild creatures behave instinctively ("Birds roost for the night/ as crickets and bats wake"). And during the total eclipse, delicate filaments of energy radiate from the sun--the corona's "lightning-like tentacles." One spread zooms in from a crowd scene to a single pale-skinned child, who radiates their own filaments of energy: "one/ tiny/ precious.../ you." The miracle of the eclipse and the miracle of existence are drawn together in this title about the unifying power of coming "face-to-face with the splendor of the universe." Back matter includes instructions for constructing a sun viewer. Ages 4-8. (Sept.)

Gr 1-3-An overview of the phenomenon known as a total solar eclipse. The book not only delves into the scientific aspects but also provides a step-by-step guide for DIY enthusiasts to create their own sun viewer, enhancing readers' safe interactions with the event. What truly sets this book apart is its captivating illustrations. The vivid watercolor imagery captures the awe-inspiring transformation of the environment during the eclipse. The contrasting dark and bright colors create a dynamic portrayal of this celestial dance, offering a genuine and immersive experience for the readers. The fluidity of the artwork evokes the real-time changes during an eclipse, making it a visual delight. Moreover, the inclusion of diverse characters emphasizes the universal impact of an eclipse. It highlights how this natural phenomenon transcends boundaries and affects people worldwide, fostering a sense of unity and shared wonder. VERDICT In a blend of science and art, this book succeeds in making the complex accessible and extraordinarily relatable, making it a valuable addition to any collection's astronomy shelves.

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