Starry Messenger: Galileo Galilei (1996) by Peter Sis is a beautifully illustrated children’s book that tells the story of the famed Italian astronomer and his groundbreaking discoveries. Through intricate artwork and lyrical prose, Sis captures Galileo’s curiosity, his revolutionary use of the telescope, and his defiance of the Church’s geocentric worldview.
The book highlights key moments in Galileo’s life—his observations of Jupiter’s moons, the phases of Venus, and his eventual trial for heresy—while emphasizing the broader theme of intellectual courage. Sis’s illustrations, rich in detail and symbolism, evoke the wonder of the cosmos and the tension between science and dogma.
Awarded a Caldecott Honor for its artistic excellence, Starry Messenger serves as both a historical tribute and an inspiration for young readers to question, explore, and persevere in the pursuit of truth.
