Best Space Story Book Picks for Curious Kids
"My little one’s obsessed with stars — but where do I even start?"
If your child has recently become fascinated by the Moon, astronauts, or those glittering specks in the night sky (and let’s be honest, who isn’t at some point?), you’re definitely not alone. Whether it starts with a telescope from the local library or a question over breakfast like “Mummy, is the Moon made of cheese?” — space is one of those brilliant topics that captures young imaginations in a way few others can.
But finding the right space story book can feel like navigating a galaxy of options. There are facts-heavy tomes, storybooks that lean more into fantasy than learning, and some that just don’t quite land for your child’s age or developmental stage. Especially in early years, you’re looking for books that spark wonder while also encouraging emotional growth, boosting curiosity, and gently introducing scientific concepts — all in a safe, age-appropriate way.
"It's all too complex, too grown-up… or just not engaging enough!"
A lot of space-themed books go all in on science and forget that little readers are still working out big emotions like awe, fear, curiosity, and even bravery. The trouble is, many well-meaning books about the cosmos can overwhelm young readers — either with too much technical language or illustrations that feel cold and impersonal. Others might lean too hard on cartoonish aliens or silly space clichés that don’t truly satisfy your child’s hunger for real knowledge.
As a parent, teacher or carer, you want something that does more than just look the part. You want a space story book that builds vocabulary, supports their bedtime routine, and helps them process new ideas about our universe. You want a book that balances STEM learning with play, that celebrates inclusivity and diversity (yes, let’s show astronauts from all backgrounds!), and that inspires young readers to think and feel deeply about the world — and the universe — around them.
From my experience as an early years educator, I’ve seen just how impactful a thoughtfully chosen space story book can be. Whether it’s a two-year-old wide-eyed over pop-up planets or a six-year-old asking if they can live on Mars, the right book invites them to ask brilliant questions and dream big, while grounding them in kindness, collaboration, and awe.
Build curiosity, confidence and connection with beautiful, age-appropriate space books
Here’s the good news — there’s a whole constellation of children’s books out there that do space just right.
The best ones offer long-tail space stories for young explorers, carefully tailored to their stage of development. For babies and toddlers, think first space books with bold illustrations and simple, rhythmic storytelling. For preschoolers, we look for gentle space stories about feelings — journeys through the stars that mirror a child’s emotional world. For older readers, we introduce space adventure books with real science, encouraging hands-on learning through stories of astronauts, moon landings, and cosmic curiosity.
A good space story book goes beyond the “what” and into the “why” — why the stars twinkle, why astronauts float, or why we explore space in the first place. These stories open up big conversations about bravery, teamwork, care for the Earth, and how we’re all part of something bigger.
Illustrations also play a huge role. Look for those that show the true textures of the Moon or the swirling colours of Jupiter. These visual cues help even the youngest children feel included and inspired — and when the art is rooted in real telescope imagery (hello, Hubble and James Webb!), it adds an extra layer of wonder.
Catriona’s View: Why I Always Recommend Space Story Books in the Early Years
Space books are more than just a fun theme — they’re tools for emotional and cognitive development. They encourage children to be curious, to ask open-ended questions, and to explore ideas that are far bigger than themselves. They also help with self-regulation (especially at bedtime), introduce basic STEM concepts in a safe, imaginative way, and link beautifully to early learning goals like understanding the world and expressive arts and storytelling.
They’re also brilliant for circle time, story corners, and even small-world play. I’ve used space-themed books to launch conversations about emotions, differences, teamwork, and caring for our world — all crucial lessons for developing empathy and resilience in the early years.
Whether it’s a glow-in-the-dark bedtime story or a hands-on guide to the galaxy, a well-chosen space story book lights up more than just imaginations — it opens up a whole new world of learning and connection.
🌟 Brilliant Space Books for Ages 3–5
There are 101 Things to Find in Space
A search-and-find delight that helps little ones spot rockets, planets, aliens and more across bright, friendly illustrations. Perfect for building vocabulary and fuelling curiosity.
Recommended age: Not specified
Montessori: Planet Work
A gentle, hands-on introduction to the planets through beautiful Montessori-inspired artwork and child-friendly facts. Ideal for early years learning and supporting independent discovery.
Recommended age: Not specified
🚀 Fantastic Space Books for Ages 5–7+
Glow: A Children's Guide to the Night Sky
This beautifully illustrated guide explores stars, constellations and planets — a perfect companion for young stargazers eager to explore the night sky.
Recommended age: Not specified
The Book of Blast Off! - 15 Real-Life Space Missions
From Apollo to the ISS, this dynamic book chronicles real missions that changed the course of space exploration. Engaging, factual, and bursting with energy.
Recommended age: Not specified
Space: From Sputnik to the International Space Station
An accessible and visually rich history of humanity's journey into space, covering key milestones and inspiring young readers to imagine their own cosmic futures.
Recommended age: Not specified
Get Active | Cosmic Play Beyond the Pages
Books are just the beginning! Here are a few easy, space-themed activities to bring the cosmos a little closer — perfect for rainy days, weekend play, or after-school curiosity:
🌍 Make a Galaxy in a Jar – Use a clean glass jar, cotton wool, water, food colouring, and a sprinkle of eco-glitter to create a swirling space scene. Great for sensory play and colour mixing!
🧠 Invent Your Own Alien – Grab some paper, crayons and recycled bits & bobs. Draw or build your own creature from a faraway planet. What do they eat? How do they travel?
🚀 Build a Cardboard Rocket – Upcycle a delivery box into a rocket ship. Add foil, cut-out control panels and paint-on portholes. Brilliant for dramatic play and teamwork.
🔭 Stargazing Starter – Wrap up warm and head outside to spot the Moon, Venus, or Orion’s Belt. A free stargazing app can help name what you see — and spark big questions!
🎶 Sing Space Songs – “Zoom, Zoom, Zoom, We’re Going to the Moon” is a brilliant preschool favourite. Add actions, bounce time, or instruments to make it even more engaging.
Whether you’re crafting, imagining or stargazing, these little moments help turn curiosity into confidence — and support early learning in playful, lasting ways.