Sailing the solar system The next 100 years of space exploration

Gr 4-7-Emphasizing how our past is crucial to determining our future, this unique set looks at how technology has changed over the last century and considers how continued technological advancements will affect life on Earth over the course of the next 100 years. Fictionalized futurologist Luna Li, the central character, helps a diverse group of students-and by extension, the audience-think critically about what is likely to continue and what could plausibly change in each volume's three distinct sections: "Where Have We Been?" "Where Are We Going Next?" and "By the Year 2120." The graphic format is both entertaining and highly accessible, demystifying potentially complex ideas. While the artwork appears hazy at times, it complements the uncertain nature of futurology. The inclusion of a sidebar at the bottom of some of the pages offers additional noteworthy material without diminishing the primary content. VERDICT Thought provoking and engaging, this standout series would be a solid purchase to introduce readers to this relatively unfamiliar discipline. © Copyright 2016. Library Journals LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of Media Source, Inc. No redistribution permitted.

Fictional "futurist" Luna Li tours the Air and Space Museum for highlights of past space exploration, then transports herself and a companion to a hologram-based future in which NASA explores unexamined bodies in the solar system, commercial space flight exists, and planets' natural resources can be exploited. The comic-like panel illustrations featuring cutting-edge space technologies add interest to a contrived frame story. Reading list. Glos., ind. (c) Copyright 2017. The Horn Book, Inc., a wholly owned subsidiary of Media Source, Inc. No redistribution permitted.