THE BOY WHO ASKS A GAZILLION WHYS

Children ask some big scientific questions in Pinke’s educational picture book.

“Why is the sky BLUE?” “Why do zebras have stripes?” “Why do I HAVE TO go to bed?” Nick asks questions like this all the time, and his best friend, Know-It-All Nate, usually has the answers. But when Nick finally asks a question that stumps Nate, the boys take their search for answers to the local science museum. At first, Nick and Nate are overwhelmed. Inside the museum, they find exhibit rooms for nearly everything, from weather and minerals to toilets. Eventually, they find the outer space room and meet the museum guide. But instead of simply giving them the answers, the guide uses a model of the moon and Earth to demonstrate gravity. When Nick asks about the blue sky, she explains light scattering with another display of Earth and the sun. Although the guide can’t answer every question, she encourages the boys’ interest, explaining that all great science starts with curiosity. Some answers already exist; others are waiting to be discovered. Nick is inspired and becomes even more inquisitive. This book delivers a charming celebration of curiosity and the joy of learning. It reassures young readers that asking questions is not only welcome, but essential to scientific discovery. The boys’ resilience in finding answers also promotes a growth mindset that is essential for a story that caters to young learners. The book is also quite funny, with lighthearted and relatable humor that readers of all ages will likely appreciate.

A well-conceived picture book that uses humor and lively illustrations to showcase the importance of science learning.