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The Planet Hunter: The Story Behind What Happened to Pluto
This nonfiction picture book tells the story of astronomer Mike Brown, from his childhood to his growing curiosity about the solar system to his amazing discoveries. Full color.
32 pages, Hardcover
First published September 1, 2007
About the author
Elizabeth Rusch
35 books72 followersELIZABETH RUSCH is an award-winning book author, magazine writer, editor, writing teacher and speaker. Her wide-ranging passions include astronomy, volcanology, art, music, history, nature, waves, jokes, crayons, and mud — anything that catches her fancy. She is inspired by stories of exploration and discovery, stories that have been overlooked by history, and stories that grapple with persistent questions. Whether writing fiction or nonfiction for children or adults or teaching workshops, she hopes her work opens doors, opens minds, opens possibilities.
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Displaying 1 - 27 of 27 reviews
February 25, 2020
An excellent examination of one of the key ideas upon which all modern scientific endeavor rests - namely, that our understanding of reality must keep pace with new evidence - this charming picture-book biography follows the life story of astronomer Mike Brown, who, from the time he was a child, wanted to discover additional planets in our solar system. Hi search turned up many previously unknown celestial bodies, from the trans-Neptunian object Sedna, to the dwarf planet Eris, and - more importantly - led to a reevaluation of the definition of a planet. Yes, Brown is the man whose research is responsible for the reclassification of Pluto, and as The Planet Hunter makes plain, he is to celebrated for it!
I'm not sure exactly what I expected from Elizabeth Rusch's book, but what I got was an engaging mixture of human interest story, complete with some of the details of Mike Brown's life - I loved the final scene, where he's clipping Pluto out of his infant daughter's mobile! - and scientifically illuminating exploration. This author really knows how to make scientific ideas both clear and interesting, and the accompanying illustrations by Guy Francis are very appealing, emphasizing the atmosphere of discovery. I know that some are, for sentimental reasons, attached to the idea of Pluto as a planet, but given that we live in a country in which various municipalities have tried to interfere in this issue - a country in which science is daily under siege by the forces of unreason - I think a book like this is most welcome! It highlights the idea that Mike Brown's discovery, which adds to our knowledge, rather than detracting from it, is something wonderful!
I'm not sure exactly what I expected from Elizabeth Rusch's book, but what I got was an engaging mixture of human interest story, complete with some of the details of Mike Brown's life - I loved the final scene, where he's clipping Pluto out of his infant daughter's mobile! - and scientifically illuminating exploration. This author really knows how to make scientific ideas both clear and interesting, and the accompanying illustrations by Guy Francis are very appealing, emphasizing the atmosphere of discovery. I know that some are, for sentimental reasons, attached to the idea of Pluto as a planet, but given that we live in a country in which various municipalities have tried to interfere in this issue - a country in which science is daily under siege by the forces of unreason - I think a book like this is most welcome! It highlights the idea that Mike Brown's discovery, which adds to our knowledge, rather than detracting from it, is something wonderful!
October 26, 2010
This biography is so perfect for kids, especially those interested in astronomy or discovery/invention. It’s about Mike Brown and it starts when he’s a boy and goes to the present. He’s now an adult with a daughter of his own. But, he’s “Mike” throughout the book and he’s referred to in a way that does not distance him too much from his childhood goals, or from children being able to identify with him. He’s portrayed in such a way that children will like and admire him, but he doesn’t seem like a high and mighty adult either.
This story of a man who’s looking to make a discovery and finds something else that also ends up being an important find could spur on young scientists and children who have interest in other fields too. It shows how continuing to work and persevering with childhood dreams can lead to success as an adult.
I love some of the illustrations. The expression on Mike’s face on the “space blob” page is priceless; what the illustrator did with his eyes is great. I also love that baby Lilah’s over the crib mobile was a replica of our solar system. I was delighted that the new solar system poster was there, folded into the inside back cover of this library copy of the book. It’s a wonderful poster that gives a good feel for the proper scale of the sun and planets and other space objects; I hope it never gets separated from the book. Many of the illustrations are too garish for my taste in art, but they work for this book, and I’m always a sucker for a cute dog, and there is one of those in some of the early pictures.
This is one of six picture books for November’s “space” theme at the Picture Books Club at the Children's Books group. Another winner! It’s rare that our books are not really good, and all have been worthy of the interesting discussions we have.
So, now the thing I appreciate most about this children’s picture book is that maybe, just maybe, it finally convinced me that Pluto shouldn’t be deemed a planet. I really mourned when Pluto lost its planet status, but I have to admit its demotion makes sense, something which I hadn’t wanted to admit up until now. It sometimes takes me awhile to adjust!
This story of a man who’s looking to make a discovery and finds something else that also ends up being an important find could spur on young scientists and children who have interest in other fields too. It shows how continuing to work and persevering with childhood dreams can lead to success as an adult.
I love some of the illustrations. The expression on Mike’s face on the “space blob” page is priceless; what the illustrator did with his eyes is great. I also love that baby Lilah’s over the crib mobile was a replica of our solar system. I was delighted that the new solar system poster was there, folded into the inside back cover of this library copy of the book. It’s a wonderful poster that gives a good feel for the proper scale of the sun and planets and other space objects; I hope it never gets separated from the book. Many of the illustrations are too garish for my taste in art, but they work for this book, and I’m always a sucker for a cute dog, and there is one of those in some of the early pictures.
This is one of six picture books for November’s “space” theme at the Picture Books Club at the Children's Books group. Another winner! It’s rare that our books are not really good, and all have been worthy of the interesting discussions we have.
So, now the thing I appreciate most about this children’s picture book is that maybe, just maybe, it finally convinced me that Pluto shouldn’t be deemed a planet. I really mourned when Pluto lost its planet status, but I have to admit its demotion makes sense, something which I hadn’t wanted to admit up until now. It sometimes takes me awhile to adjust!
November 23, 2010
The Planet Hunter was a great read. I think this book would inspire any young astronomer. I certainly learned from this book. The story takes us through the life of astronomer Mike Brown and his journey to become “The Planet Hunter”. I liked the illustrations and attention to detail. For example, one of illustrations was of Mike as a child hanging a solar system poster in his room. He had a holey sock, open messy drawer, and an over crowed trash can. It was fun to see what he was like as a child. On the next page, I missed this the first time through, look closely out the window. I smiled when I saw the object that you normally wouldn’t find in the sky. I agree with Lisa on the brilliant facial expressions.
I was interested in reading about Mike Brown’s life. I especially liked the extra facts on some of the pages. My only slight disappointment was he discovered Santa, which is a nickname, and the book did not say what its real name was. I was so interested, I actually looked it up. For any of you who are interested, it is Haumea (dwarf planet). The epilogue was a nice touch.
After reading this book, I was tickled when we got into the car and caught the tail end of “The Planet Hunter” being interviewed. Mike Brown was asked if he was disappointed he didn’t find a planet and he said that he felt he did even better by the reclassification of planets and the discoveries he has made. I told my husband I had just read about him and that he should read the book. He said he would.
This was another great read from the Picture Book Club located here: http://www.goodreads.com/topic/show/4...
I was interested in reading about Mike Brown’s life. I especially liked the extra facts on some of the pages. My only slight disappointment was he discovered Santa, which is a nickname, and the book did not say what its real name was. I was so interested, I actually looked it up. For any of you who are interested, it is Haumea (dwarf planet). The epilogue was a nice touch.
After reading this book, I was tickled when we got into the car and caught the tail end of “The Planet Hunter” being interviewed. Mike Brown was asked if he was disappointed he didn’t find a planet and he said that he felt he did even better by the reclassification of planets and the discoveries he has made. I told my husband I had just read about him and that he should read the book. He said he would.
This was another great read from the Picture Book Club located here: http://www.goodreads.com/topic/show/4...
February 13, 2017
Rusch tells the story here of astronomer Mike Brown, who, in looking for planet-sized objects beyond Pluto, discovered Santa, the fastest revolving object in our solar system, Quaoar, Sedna, and Eris, an object bigger than Pluto. Unfortunately, even though Eris is bigger than Pluto, it's not considered a planet either. I didn't care for the casual way this book was written, more like an anecdote. I would have liked a straightforward non-fiction book, but that's just me. The illustrations were colorful, with a touch of humor, and I'm sure kids will find it interesting. Recommended.
October 9, 2017
Science fans will love this mix of story biography and nonfiction details about Mike Brown's discoveries. I loved how his story didn't "start" when he was an adult, but as a child fascinated with astronomy. The first two-page spread of the book really captures it for me: the fascination, the delight, and the "let me see for myself".
December 27, 2021
My middle/high school world turned upside down when I first heard the news Pluto wasn't a planet anymore. Now, I know who to blame for that trauma... haha. Mike Brown is still looking at the sky nowadays, searching for more planets. Or planet wannabes. Still, trauma aside, it was interesting to learn how scientists discover things in outer space and how they decided what a planet would/would not be. Cool illustrations too. I wish there had been a photo of Mike somewhere in the book.
Note- Mike has a very active Twitter account and a website with links to a free DIY class on planets/space/etc. https://mikebrown.caltech.edu/teachin...
Note- Mike has a very active Twitter account and a website with links to a free DIY class on planets/space/etc. https://mikebrown.caltech.edu/teachin...
November 18, 2022
I remember the brouhaha about Pluto NOT being a planet anymore! This all started with planet hunter Mike Brown. In his search for other planets in our solar system, he ran across new objects like Santa which looks like a " squashed football sprayed with a frosting of ice". Its day is only 4 hours long! Very interesting book! But I still think of Pluto as a planet though! 😄
August 19, 2017
I love this story! I have read astronomer Mike Brown's superbly informative and funny book "How I Killed Pluto, and Why It Had It Coming," and this version for kids is well-told and illustrated.
September 27, 2017
A reasonable and cheerful explanation of the discoveries that led to Pluto being un-planeted. Excited to read this to my kids when we get to talk about space this year!!!!!
January 1, 2025
Perfect for those a fan of space. This was fascinating to read. I would recommend for older kids.
November 6, 2010
The Planet Hunter: The Story Behind What Happened to Pluto by Elizabeth Rusch, illustrated by Guy Francis, is a picture-book format biography of astronomer Mike Brown. Brown's discoveries of many celestial bodies, including Quaoar, Sedna, & Santa, plus a Pluto-sized object, Eris, in our solar system led to a re-evaluation of what constitutes a planet, & ultimately led to the demotion of Pluto to dwarf-planet status.
Rusch makes scientific ideas both clear & interesting. The illustrations by Guy Francis are very engaging & definitely pull readers into the story. The illustrations vary in perspective & the inclusion of the collie definitely pulls aminal lovers into the beginning of the story.
Most importantly Rusch and Francis make the sujbect of astromony, with its focus on a single planet hunter, come alive for children. Planet Hunter also emphasized the concept that discoveries are constantly being made and some of our long held beliefs must change as knowledge expands. Hopefully teachers & librarians will make sure kids discover this book!
For readers 7 to 11, for young astonomy buffs, and younger for those who demand this be read aloud.
Rusch makes scientific ideas both clear & interesting. The illustrations by Guy Francis are very engaging & definitely pull readers into the story. The illustrations vary in perspective & the inclusion of the collie definitely pulls aminal lovers into the beginning of the story.
Most importantly Rusch and Francis make the sujbect of astromony, with its focus on a single planet hunter, come alive for children. Planet Hunter also emphasized the concept that discoveries are constantly being made and some of our long held beliefs must change as knowledge expands. Hopefully teachers & librarians will make sure kids discover this book!
For readers 7 to 11, for young astonomy buffs, and younger for those who demand this be read aloud.
May 18, 2008
This nonfiction picture book tells the story of Mike Brown, the guy whose discoveries led to Pluto's demotion. Mike always thought there must be more planets out there somewhere and he was so confident about it that he made a bet with a friend that a planet larger than Pluto would be discovered within four years. Mike lost his bet, discovering several astral bodies that were smaller than Pluto. But just after the four-year limit, Mike found Eris, a planet bigger than Pluto! But if everything that size could be considered a planet, there might be hundreds of planets. Mike's discovery led scientists to think about the definition of a planet and that thinking eventually led to Pluto's demotion. This book presents the events in a clear, straightforward way great for elementary students.
December 9, 2007
In case you've been living on an asteroid, Pluto got bumped from the planet club last year after astronomers decided there were too many other Pluto-esque balls of ice and rock floating around the same neighborhood. It just wasn't special enough after all.
Nothing could make such a phenomenon hit closer than dramatizing it as a personal quest. Rusch cuts through the science and brings us a gripping, highly readable story of one persistent, likable young astronomer determined to find another planet in the Kuiper belt at the very fringes of the solar system.
Read the rest.
Nothing could make such a phenomenon hit closer than dramatizing it as a personal quest. Rusch cuts through the science and brings us a gripping, highly readable story of one persistent, likable young astronomer determined to find another planet in the Kuiper belt at the very fringes of the solar system.
Read the rest.
October 3, 2008
Collin received this book as a gift from someone who met the author at a conference. I thought it would be too complex for a four year old, but he loves it. I love that the book has a mix of drawings and actual photographs of the sky - nicely done. This book also happens to be the first biography that I have read to Collin, so it gave me the opportunity to tell him what a biography is and how it is different from the other books we read.
January 2, 2013
When Pluto got demoted from being a planet, I, like most people, was confused. How can something that has been known to be one thing for so long now be something different? Since then, I have read several books that are all about, or at least mention, Pluto's demotion asking readers to choose a side in this debate. How funny that the relabeling of our solar system caused such controversy. This biography is great at explaining how all of this reclassifying came to be.
November 6, 2010
This book was great. I loved the illustrations. I can imagine this being a great read aloud during an astronomy unit or a biography unit. And I must say that it really helped me understand why Pluto is no longer designated a planet and get excited about future discoveries that may happen in my lifetime. This was such a great book...and includes an awesome poster.
January 26, 2009
Great children's biography of Mike Brown, Hunstville, AL native, who had a passion for planets and desire to find more. (Somehow I missed reading about the 'planet problem' in the news and really enjoyed learning about the discovery of Quaoar, Sedna, Santa and Eris in this current biography).
July 7, 2009
Great explanation for what happened to Pluto - true story of the scientist that caused the whole uproar, but written as a children's story. If you're studying the planets with your elementary aged kids, this is definitely a fun one to include.
February 23, 2011
So much has been made of the Pluto controversy, this book explains why Pluto is not a planet by tracing the evolution of discoveries about Pluto by an actual scientist. Great for teaching kids about how science learns and changes.
July 28, 2015
If I were still teaching, I'd probably have to buy this because I couldn't imagine doing a unit for kids 4-12 without it. Really worthwhile. It's a good time to read it with our current events regarding Pluto.
May 4, 2008
Even kids typically too old for picture books should like this one, if they are interested in astronomy.
Read
April 29, 2008Great story about why Pluto is no longer a planet--with great pictures (more a picture story book)
July 8, 2008
A little wordy for the dude. But cool illustrations.
August 24, 2010
This is a non-fiction book in a picture book format.
April 16, 2012
Complex stuff/real science/biography in a very kid-friendly (but interesting to adult) style. Really impressed with this book. I LOVE Pluto though so I am perhaps a bit impartial.
September 1, 2014
Fascinating read about Pluto and Planet Hunter - liked the additional facts too.
Read
April 21, 2013To inspire future astronomers!
Displaying 1 - 27 of 27 reviews