Customer Reviews

Planet Mars: Story of Another World (Springer Praxis Books / Popular Astronomy)

5 star:		(3)
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Planet Mars Story of Another world is one of my favorite Mars books. As an amateur astronomer for 40 years and a Mars Society member I have read many books on Mars( see my other reviews for a few more Mars books). This book is quite remarkable. Its NOT a kids book but is an easy read. No heavy math.

Originally published in French the English translation is perfect. No mistakes. The authors Francois Forget, Francois Costard are highly respected scientists and professor Philippe Lognonne is well know in his field. The French book edition won the 2004 Grand Prix du Livre Scientifique d'Orsay.

It not a coffee table picture book but half of the 224 pages are fantastic quality pictures of Mars sites by different spacecraft and rovers and excellent drawings describing what the authors are saying. One of the best books that illustrates exactly what the author is saying. The descriptions and writings of the various subjects are well written and packed with information.For me a quality picture or drawing of scientific information is always helpful.

The 5 parts of the book are listed by the age of Mars starting with its origin and ending with man exploring Mars. Much information and pictures are given tracing the past flowing of liquid water on Mars. Mars weather is discussed. Both Mars moons are described. Many many topics are talked about and these topics are richly illustrated.At the end of the book Dr Robert Zubrin's "Mars Direct" approach is talked about. The lower cost way to send 4 people to Mars using preexisting technology and have them explore Mars for 1 1/2 years. . Definitely the way to go. ( Read Dr Robert Zubrin's The Case for Mars 5 stars).

Its rare to give ANY book a 5 star plus rating on both the writing and illustrations. The scientist and professor authors did it right. One of the best comparison writing to picture books I have ever read.

Parents can show their kids the many pictures and read the descriptions. Not too technical. If interested in Mars both will love this book. A great addition to any home library. Enjoy

For a college Astronomy class, I had to give a presentation on Mars--something besides the general knowledge factoids that you can dig up off the Internet. So, I went in search of a satisfying Mars book that went beyond the basics, but didn't tax one like me who isn't the best at science. I found this book on Amazon, and I order it! I was NOT disappointed! For a science book, I found this to be both interesting and entertaining to read. It contains some fascinating images and illustrations to explain the Red Planet--past, present, and future. I felt very close to Olympus Mons, the Solar System's largest volcano, and to many other Martian features after reading this book. I especially enjoyed the bit about Mars' moons.

If you are interested in Mars, this is a must-have!

great book on the evidence for oceans, rivers, and rainfall on Mars millions of years ago