An accessible, engaging explanation and exploration of what we know about black holes uses an inviting, friendly tone and dynamic illustrations to convey a wealth of scientific information. Author Carolyn Cinami DeCristofano’s often playful comparisons and descriptions will help readers wrap their minds around this infinite concept. For example, imagine a stretchy blanket onto which you toss a peanut holding all the elephants in the world inside. “The blanket stretches and stretches, pulling out of shape. It forms … a steep well that’s really a lot like … a hole!” Michael Carroll’s dramatic illustrations of space are always carefully labeled as an artist’s interpretations to distinguish them from photographs, which are also used in this engaging work that concludes with a glossary, an author’s note on her research, and resources in print and on the Web. (Ages 9–13)

Get ready to S-T-R-E-T-C-H your mind!

What is a black hole? Where do they come from? How were they discovered? Can we visit one? Carolyn Cinami DeCristofano takes readers on a ride through the galaxies (ours, and others), answering these questions and many more about the phenomenon known as a black hole.

In lively and often humorous text, the book starts off with a thorough explanation of gravity and the role it plays in the formation of black holes. Paintings by Michael Carroll, coupled with real telescopic images, help readers visualize the facts and ideas presented in the text, such as how light bends, and what a supernova looks like.

A BLACK HOLE IS NOT A HOLE is an excellent introduction to an extremely complex scientific concept. Back matter includes a timeline which sums up important findings discussed throughout, while the glossary and index provide a quick point of reference for readers. Children and adults alike will learn a ton of spacey facts in this far-out book that’s sure to excite even the youngest of astrophiles.