How To Teach Grown-ups About Pluto (the Cutting-edge Space Science Of The Solar System)

A witty guide to Pluto’s discovery and demotion, which puts kids in charge.

Pluto has not been a planet since 2006. But this tiny world still inspires people of all ages while sparking controversy. In this delightfully witty book, astronomer Dean Regas teaches you how to educate your grown-up about the cutting-edge science of space, most crucially the reason why Pluto is NOT a planet any more. Delving into the history of space discoveries, the key players who have helped our understanding of the universe (including the 11-year-old girl who named Pluto in the first place) and the ever-changing nature of science, this book will equip every reader with the tools they need to bring their grown-ups fully up to speed, and to sneak in as many amazing astronomical facts as possible. And there’s a handy quiz at the end so that you can check your grown-up has been paying attention!

"So cool and utterly brilliant. If this book doesn’t get youngsters interested in astronomy then I might have to eat my own copy, timeline and all."

Dean Regas is the Astronomer at Cincinnati Observatory, USA, and a passionate educator on space and the solar system. As well as being responsible for outreach activities at the Observatory, Dean is one of NASA’s Solar System Ambassadors, who communicate its latest discoveries to the public. An extremely engaging and media-savvy astronomy lecturer, he is regularly featured on television and radio and hosts the podcast Looking Up. Dean is the author of several books including Facts from Space! and has written for publications such as The Huffington Post and Sky & Telescope magazine.

Aaron Blecha is a Brighton-based artist and author who designs funny characters and illustrates humorous books. Aaron has illustrated over 40 books, including the popular George Brown, Class Clown and the Shark School series. He is also the author and illustrator of Goodnight, Grizzle Grump! and Good Morning, Grizzle Grump! published by HarperCollins. In addition to illustrating children’s books, Aaron works as a character designer in TV development for studios such as Disney, Curious Pictures and eOne Family.