Aliana Reaches for the Moon
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$18.99
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"Aliana Reaches for the Moon interweaves science and art to tell a beautiful story about a budding young scientist who serves as a wonderful mentor and role model for her younger brother." ~Grace Wolf-Chase, PhD; Astronomer, Adler Planetarium
In this charming STEAM book, children will see how the light of the full moon inspires Aliana to create a present for her brother Gustavo, which will surprise the whole family.
Aliana loves observing everything in nature.
When she notices how bright the light of the full moon shines into her room, she spends time learning about the moon and experimenting with light.
As she prepares for her brother's birthday, she plans a wonderful surprise to be revealed with the next full moon.
What people are saying!
"This short children’s book imparts many pearls of wisdom about the qualities of a scientist, while telling an engaging story about a girl’s caring relationship with her younger brother. Using her ingenuity, imagination, and ordinary household materials, Aliana creates a special experience for Gustavo’s 5th birthday. Aliana Reaches for the Moon encourages all children – and especially girls - to read, explore, experiment, and to take notice of the natural world. There’s even an important message for parents – doing science can be messy!" ~ Grace Wolf-Chase, PhD; Astronomer, Adler Planetarium
"Curiosity and imagination, paired with research and experimental play, help Aliana bring her unique idea to life. Aliana Reaches for the Moon will inspire readers to use science, imagination, and experimental play to create their own innovations." ~Linda Schwab, Flight Director, Challenger Learning Center of Northwest Indiana
Interview with the author: KidLit Lollipop
"Young readers – especially young girls – to connect with the natural world and explore the wonders of science. Aliana, in her efforts to make a perfect fifth birthday present for her brother Gus, explores reflection, refraction, and a host of other scientific laws and principles en route to a delightful surprise ending. In a humorous twist, Aliana teaches readers that science can be messy – her parents are always after her to clean her room! Aliana’s experiment is focused on the moon, which shines very brightly in the sky over her home in the Rocky Mountains of Colorado. In the end, Aliana gains knowledge and learns new skills, as do her readers.
Laura Roettiger’s text is exquisitely supported and framed by Ariel Boroff’s vividly colorful and fanciful illustrations, which add depth and life to Aliana’s world. A bonus is a post-text author’s note about the phases of the moon, which further educates young readers and perfectly complements and echoes Boroff’s imaginative illustrations. In presenting Aliana as a smart and creative girl, curious about all aspects of the natural world, Roettiger has set an example for young readers to follow; additionally, Aliana is a happy child, devoted to her brother and family, and not living as an outcast “science nerd.” Aliana is so engrossed in creativity and exploration of the natural world that she most likely would not even notice if others viewed her activities as unusual. These are powerful messages in today’s world, where youngsters are quick to make assumptions and place labels. Aliana Reaches for the Moon is far more than just an enchanting story for young readers. By presenting Aliana in such a compelling and positive light, it touches the future in real and meaningful ways." ~Reviewed by Golder Hazelton for Readers' Favorite