Journey Around the Sun: The Story of Halley's Comet. Written by James Gladstone and illustrated by Yaara Eshet. Owlkids, 20211. $19.95 ages 8 and up

"So often you saw my light as a 
messenger of misfortune. But I 
am only a comet, neither good 
nor bad - a part of nature. 

Your thoughts were so fearful, 
full of old superstition." 

Listening to Halley's Comet tell its own story is an ingenious way to introduce the comet that has been viewed from Earth over many hundreds of years. Its story is told in a large font, and accompanied with plenty of factual information in a much smaller font. 

This is what follows the above quote: 

"Halley's Comet returned in 1066, just a few months
before the Battle of Hastings. King Harold of England 
died in this battle, an event that was woven into the 
Bayeux Tapestry along with an image of the comet."

Human beings have been in awe when catching sight of it. Records show that it was seen by the Greeks as early as 466 B.C.E., and then throughout history. Many have written about it, and many others have included its image in their art. Lucky we are today to be able to make a more careful study of it. We can thank space probes for that. The first-person voice is very effective in leading readers on a path through history, sharing how different generations understood or misunderstood its appearance. Much was surmised until modern science was able to clear up some of the misconceptions. Its return every 75 years or so meant that many had never seen it. Finally in 1758, Edmond Halley was able to predict its orbit. In the early 1900s, photographs were taken.  

The watercolor art is stunning. Ms. Eshet fills the spreads and panels with dark skies of incredible depth, while also taking readers on a trip through many historical periods. There is a lot to see here.  Back matter includes a note from the author, a description of comets, and a list of the author's sources. The final two spreads offer a promise and a question. The next time Halley's Comet is expected to be seen is in 2061. Who of you will be there to see it? 

Captivating and informative, this wonderful book will find fans of all ages. 

"I have seen your past.
 And I will see your future,
the next time I take that sunlight journey."