As a child, Neil sees the sparkling, mysterious night sky at the planetarium, launching his love for space. At first, he walks dogs to save money for a telescope. As a teen and adult, his knowledge and reputation grows—he has a unique ability to inspire others to explore the universe with curiosity and wonder.
Starstruck: The Cosmic Journey of Neil deGrasse Tyson
Discuss the Book
A Change of Plans
Pages 3–11
- Important Moment: Neil wanted to be a baseball player, but after seeing the night sky outside the city, his plans change. Now he wants to be an astrophysicist, a scientist who studies the universe.
- Ask and Share: What did Neil want to be when he grew up? How did his goal change? Why? What do you dream of doing one day? Have your goals changed or evolved since you were younger?
Lots to Learn
Pages 12–17
- Important Moment: When Neil takes classes at the planetarium, he feels lost when the information is difficult to understand. Neil won’t give up; he pushes himself to learn and understand more.
- Ask and Share: Have you had an experience like Neil’s, where you felt like something was too hard to understand? What are some good things to try if you’re feeling lost or confused, worried or frustrated?
Mind Blown
Pages 18–25
- Important Moment: Neil has a passion for learning about space. Every new discovery—like seeing Saturn through a telescope for the first time—is like pouring rocket fuel into his tank.
- Ask and Share: The author of the book compares Neil to a rocket ship fueling up for blastoff. What is filling up Neil’s tank? What fills your tank? Which things make you feel excited, inspired, and motivated?
New Discovery
Pages 26–38
- Important Moment: Based on scientific evidence, Neil and other scientists believe Pluto should no longer be classified as a planet. People get upset about this idea and send hate mail, but Neil continues to share his ideas about space.
- Ask and Share: Why did Neil receive angry letters? Can you think of a time where you and someone else had a disagreement over a difference in opinions or ideas? How did you handle it?