posted on 07 Sep 2024

How to Build a Rocket by Fran Scott, illustrated by Paul Boston

Space is a constantly fascinating subject and we’ve had the pleasure of reviewing plenty of books aimed at getting younger readers interested in astronomy or nudging them towards a future in astrophysics. But if you’re interest stretches to actually going into space rather than just studying it from the ground, there’s one thing that you’re going to need – a rocket.

So, what’s involved in the design and construction of a rocket? That’s exactly what author Fran Scott and illustrator, Paul Boston have taken on in How to Build a Rocket. But rather than just deconstruct the process of making a rocket they’ve decided that the best way to understand the theory and practice is to show you how to make a working rocket of your very own. 

Ok, your rocket isn’t quite going to make it into space, the underlying science and theory is the same. And what better way to learn – stage by stage – than to match description of that theory with the real-world experience of launching your own rocket?

Staring with designing and building the body of the missile, we then have to think about how that would sit on a launch-pad, what fuel you’re going to use, what’s involved in the critical moment of launching the rocket and then evaluating what’s happened. There will always be tweaks needed to improve the performance and put right what’s gone wrong. This is where you start to add your refinements – fins, parachutes etc. 

This book is a perfect blend of learning and doing which can be used in school and educational settings but would also be great for children who want to take on projects in their leisure-time with friends – and probably a helpful and supportive adult.

The design of the book and illustrations are critical to a book like this – the process has to be clear and easy to follow and the book gets a big tick on that front. Even I can follow it all – and I’m as useless with my hands as its possible to be.

Available now from Walker Books, you’ll be able to get a copy from your local independent bookshop – who will be happy to order a copy if they don’t have it on their shelves.

 

Terry Potter

September 2024