Wednesday, June 1, 2016

Spring Reading 2016 Professor Astro Cat's Atomic Adventure


Enjoy science? Feel more comfortable when concepts are presented visually as well as in text? Professor Astro Cat could be your new favorite. He has already explored and explained the Frontiers of Space, but now he takes things to a whole different level - the quantum level (among other things). In his Atomic Adventure, Astro Cat covers the many facets of physics, everything from sound waves and refracted light to neutrinos and Newton's Laws. Each topic is illustrated with images of Astro Cat and his faithful mouse helper demonstrating the various concepts. The ideas are presented in simple language and use everyday examples such as talking about the number of atoms you might find on the point of a freshly sharpened pencil, or the idea that inertia is why you need someone to give you a push to get your swing started on the playground. 

There are pages on the periodic table, measurement, force and motion, energy sources, and even nano materials. Some of my favorite illustrations are those that show Astro Cat riding on Newton's shoulders, or copying Einstein and sticking out his tongue. The example of kinetic energy that shows Astro Cat using a judo chop on villains is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. And fans of Ant Man will appreciate the explanation of quantum physics. Other things included in the book are an explanation of how rainbows are formed, why paint turns muddy brown when you mix too many colors, and the forces of flight. It is a very readable introduction to physics concepts of all sorts.

Whether the book is used to help introduce a science lesson, or simply read for enjoyment by someone interested in science facts, it will be a pleasure for either audience. Astro Cat and all his colorful friends (and villains), demonstrate gravity, friction, and pressure while having a great time doing it. Readers can't help but have a great time, too. 

I read an e-book provided by the publisher through edelweiss.

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