The Fire of Stars

By Kirsten W. Larson, Katherine Roy (Illustrator)

Discover the universe's secrets through the eyes of a pioneering astronomer.

4.3/5 Goodreads · 651 ratings

48 pages· 1,860 words· Est. 15 min read-aloud

$18.99Save 5%

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Bookroo's summary

Cecilia Payne, a curious girl with dreams of the stars, becomes a trailblazing astronomer who uncovers the fiery secrets of the universe. Her journey parallels the birth of a star, igniting wonder and inspiring future generations. As she challenges the norms of her time, Cecilia's story invites us to gaze at the night sky and ask, 'What else is out there?' This poetic biography celebrates her groundbreaking discoveries and serves as a beacon for aspiring scientists, especially young girls, to explore the cosmos and change history.

From the publisher

A 2023 Good Housekeeping Kids Book Award Winner A Science Friday 2023 Best Book PickA Kirkus Reviews Best Picture Book of 2023 A School Library Journal Best Book of 2023 2024 NCTE Orbis Pictus Honor BookFour Starred Reviews! A poetic picture book celebrating the life and scientific discoveries of the groundbreaking astronomer Cecilia Payne! Astronomer and astrophysicist Cecilia Payne was the first person to discover what burns at the heart of stars. But she didn’t start out as the groundbreaking scientist she would eventually become. She started out as a girl full of curiosity, hoping one day to unlock the mysteries of the universe. With lyrical, evocative text by Kirsten W. Larson and extraordinary illustrations by award-winning illustrator Katherine Roy, this moving biography powerfully parallels the kindling of Cecilia Payne’s own curiosity and her scientific career with the process of a star’s birth, from mere possibility in an expanse of space to an eventual, breathtaking explosion of light. WOMEN IN STEM CAN CHANGE HISTORY: With women making up less than 30 percent of the science and engineering workforce, supporting young girls who are interested in STEM fields is more important than ever! This picture book tells the story of Cecilia Payne, a trailblazing female astronomer and role model for young girls to relate to and see themselves in, from even the youngest age. LOOK TO THE STARS: Any reader or stargazer who feels dazzled by the striking night sky will be enchanted by this true story of discovery and invention, as Cecilia’s contributions to science prompt us to wonder: What else is out there? BEAUTIFUL, INSPIRING GIFT: With compelling visual storytelling and an inspiring role model for aspiring astronomers, scientists, and engineers (and for young girls in particular), this stellar biography makes a great choice for any giving moment, from birthdays to celebrations to the holidays. Perfect for: Parents, teachers, and librarians looking to instill curiosity and encourage scientific explorationLovers of astronomy, stargazing, space travel, and outer spaceAnyone seeking narrative nonfiction and biography books about women in STEM for the classroom or choice readingGift-givers looking for a unique true story to delight and inspire girls and boysFans of Hidden Figures, Rad American Women A-Z, and I Am Malala