Meet Theia! Named after the “extremely extraordinary” Greek goddess of light, the chipper orange planet recounts the origins of the solar system. Back then, Earth was “a great big, fiery ball of molten rock,” much like Theia. In fact, the two quickly became “besties”…until the momentous day when Theia, caught in Earth’s gravity, helplessly crashed into her BFF and was obliterated. Most of Theia was swallowed up by Earth, “but the rest of me was catapulted into space along with the broken pieces of Earth” to become—the moon! Theia’s collision tipped Earth’s axis (“Sometimes one part of Earth leans toward the sun, getting more light and warmth. That’s what you humans call summer!”), resulting in the four seasons. The seasons enthusiastically introduce themselves as Theia explains how Earth developed life. A concise summary, a list of “Space Facts,” information on the discovery of Theia, and a list of “Big Questions Scientists Are Still Asking” conclude this dynamic epic. An exuberant tone enlivens this thorough, accessible introduction: Sassy, personable Theia refers to her namesake deity as a “proper butt-kicking goddess” and dubs herself the “super-awesome lost planet of the solar system.” With cinematic flair, the narrative zips along, its abundant art dominated by hot red oranges set against cool blues. Though the personified astronomical bodies wear smiling faces, the science is otherwise accurate.