City of Light

City of Light is a powerful and inspiring nonfiction picture book that recounts the historical moment when Perth became the ˜City of Light' by switching on every light in the city to greet American astronaut John Glenn as he orbited Earth in 1962. Rich in historical context and filled with stunning artwork, this title celebrates the spirit of unity, innovation, and pride. It provides an engaging way to explore Australia's role in space history while also highlighting themes of community cooperation, science, and global connectedness. A brilliant resource for history, STEM, and civics learning, this book brings a moment of shared humanity to life for young readers.

Educational Benefits:

• Introduces a significant historical and scientific event through accessible storytelling.
• Supports cross-curricular links between science, history, and geography.
• Encourages discussion of civic pride, symbolism, and collective action.
• Builds content-area vocabulary related to space exploration and communication.

Classroom Ideas:

• Research John Glenn's mission and its impact on space history.
• Recreate the City of Light moment with classroom lanterns or drawings.
• Discuss how technology and cooperation connect communities globally.
• Write newspaper reports from the perspective of a 1962 Perth resident.

Information:

• Ages: 6 to 12 years
• Measurements: 25.5 cm x 25.5 cm