StarTalk is a popular podcast hosted by astrophysicist Neil deGrasse Tyson. It is a mix of science, space, and popular culture—often with a comedic slant to the proceedings. An extension of the Startalk program on National Geographic is in the form of a late night talk show. Past guests include an eclectic mix of stars from science and the entertainment world like Jane Goodall, Stephen Colbert, Stephen Hawking, and James Cameron.

The younger science loving girl or boy can now join in on the fun with the release of STARTALK With Neil deGrasse Tyson. This young readers edition is divided into four sections: SPACE, PLANET EARTH, BEING HUMAN, and FUTURES IMAGINED.

Each of the sections are loaded with bold images and articles based on episodes of the show. You can read any or all in the order you choose. Here is a sample of the fun, mind tickling questions explored:

Why Can’t I Get a Pulled Pork Sandwich in Space?

What Can We Learn About Earth From Venus and Mars?

Can We Avoid The Fate of the Dinosaurs?

Will We Ever Be Able to Put a Human Brain in A Robot?

More than a hundred are included and many will have you heading to the podcast to hear more. A frequent “Did You Know” piece gives you facts to impress friends and parents. There are also features not found in the StarTalk show that expand your knowledge even more. I especially enjoyed Climate Cycles: Where’s the Proof, Is There a Science to Comedy? and So What is Earth, Exactly?

Here’s the official background from National Geographic:

StarTalk reimagines science’s most challenging topics — from how the brain works, to the physics of comic book superheroes, to the pros and cons of traveling the universe on an asteroid — in a relatable, humorous way that will attract curious young readers.  Inside, the pages are peppered with the voices of guests who have appeared on the podcast and television show, including actors, comedians, politicians, astronauts, entrepreneurs, millionaires, physicists, neurologists and biologists providing explanations, thoughtful commentary and one-liners alike. Divided into four sections —  Space, Planet Earth, being Human, and Futures Imagined — each section reveals the mystery behind black holes, real ideas for tackling climate change, what makes humans “tick” and the amazing science behind science fiction.   

There’s no question that kids who adore everything about science and our world will gravitate toward this book. What makes it even greater is that those reluctant scientists will also be pulled in for its fascinating ride. A visual and mind expanding trip sure to make deep thinkers out of anyone reading the pages.