THE FIRE OF STARS

About the book

Wrapped in a blanket of sparkling space, an unformed star waits for its bright future to begin.

Deep inside, something glimmers and glows: a new light.

With lyrical, evocative text by Kirsten W. Larson and extraordinary illustrations by award-winning illustrator Katherine Roy, this moving biography powerfully parallels the kindling of astronomer and astrophysicist Cecilia Payne’s own curiosity and her scientific career with the process of a star’s birth, from mere possibility in an expanse of space to an eventual breathtaking explosion of light.

What reviewers say:

★ ”A luminous thematic pairing.”  —  Kirkus, starred review

★ “A stellar subject, breathtaking artwork, and unique layout set this biography for young readers apart from the rest.” — School Library Journal, starred review

★ “Marrying format, language, and subject, Larson conscientiously emphasizes Payne’s accomplishments. Taking place alongside inky interstellar sidebar views, accompanying pencil and ink illustrations by Roy glow…” — Publishers Weekly, starred review

★ “Kirsten Larson deftly weaves together her compelling biography of an important woman who “stick[s] to her path” despite the odds. The decision to parallel Cecilia’s development with that of an emerging star is an inspired one, and Katherine Roy uses pencil, ink and digital color to create luminous illustrations that crackle with energy.” — Shelf Awareness, starred review

Educational Resources

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