Mitton, J., & Balit,
C. (2003). Once upon a starry night: a book of constellation stories. Washington, D.C.:
National Geographic.
Reading level: 530L
Interest level: Grades 1 - 3
This beautifully illustrated book
describes and explains the constellations in a semi-narrative format: “Look up,
and what do you see? Not just stars, but a vast picture book.” As the story
moves across the sky, the author connects the constellations’ characters by
familial blood or conflict (often both), which is a clever tactic for students
that may glaze over at anything that sounds like it’s approaching history or
science. Every illustrated constellation is punctuated by reflective silvery
stars that explain to the reader how the stars create the constellation’s
“picture.” The text is also lyrical: “Where the Milky Way tumbles through the
northern sky sits Queen Cassiopeia, a zigzag of dazzling stars…” Since
continuing the narrative thread throughout the sky would be problematic in a
picture book format, the pretense is dropped and picked up again as necessary.
Use this book to supplement a unit on Grecian and Roman
myths or discuss why these creatures, people and figures were chosen
and not spiders or slugs. Frequently Asked Questions about constellations
