Wells explores the characteristics that make Earth capable of sustaining life. Beginning with an imaginary journey through the solar system, a boy and a girl visit the other seven planets and see firsthand why they are uninhabitable, learning some facts about each along the way. Earth is special because of its distance from the sun, atmosphere and water. The final few pages discuss ways that humans have not always taken care of these valuable resources and how they can be conserved. While the overall text has an offhand, casual manner, the backmatter includes several paragraphs that will get readers to think more deeply about some of the subjects raised, such as the planets' differing orbits and the possibility of finding another planet like ours somewhere in the universe. The pen-and-acrylic illustrations suit the informal tone of the text and feature a cartoon boy and girl being piloted around the solar system by a monkey. Those toward the back get more serious as they promote a conservation message. A good beginning look at the special features that make Earth our home. (Informational picture book. 5-9)
IRA-CBC Children's Choices 2010
"Useful as an introduction to planet research, the book will work as a read-aloud or for independent reading."—School Library Journal
"Closing with a "Peaceable Kingdom" scene, this sends a clear but not heavy message to younger readers about how lucky we are to have such a home, and how important it is to keep it in good condition. The pictures, the brief text, and the specific but digestible details will pull in Gail Gibbons fans."—Booklist
"A good beginning look at the special features that make Earth our home."—Kirkus Reviews
"The text is large, easy to read, and suitable for lower elementary school age children. The author doesn't get carried away with too much detail about each planet, an approach that keeps the message of the book clear."—Science Books & Film
"This is a book that will entertain as well as inform."—Library Media Connection
"Well's playfully informative pen and acrylic illustrations support the premise that there's no place like home—and we should protect that place."—The Horn Book Guide
"The segment on environmental awareness is clear, simple, and thankfully, not panic-generating. Suggestions for student involvement are realistic. What's So Special About Planet Earth is an excellent read-aloud for primary students and would be quite accessible for students to read to themselves as well."—National Science Teachers Association
