I just want to write a list of books labeled with the title: Read Me, Now! The two books below are those kinds of books. You should read them not because I say so, but because they are good (of course, my saying so alone should really be enough!) All titles were read via online reader copies.
A Star Explodes: The Story of Supernova 1054 is a story about a supernova. The poetic telling James Gladstone creates shows us the life and times from when it was first spotted, to how it inspired and what the actual event was/is. Things are not as scientific as they could be, yet it’s all there, information mixed in with the more romantic text. Yaara Eshet’s illustrations are perfectly paired with Gladstone’s story, giving the color to fit tones and the details to give information. It can be a little busy, so this is not for all ages, but can be adapted as you need.
We’re Not Weird: Structure and Function in the Animal Kingdom is a description of all the weird, excuse me, not weird animals out there. We see in a more conversational tone the different animals Michael Garland introduces us to. Things with spikes, odd looking noses, and more “oddities” are all adaptations to help the animal eat, protect themselves, attract a mate, and survive in their environments. The artwork is a little more simple than the story itself might seemingly lend itself to, but they are fun and colorful images that pop. Details are lush telling things as much as the text. Several extras add to the story.