This book chronicles the life of Galileo Galilei, one of the most brilliant scientists who ever lived. It covers the history of astronomy up until Galileo's time, and then whisks the reader on a magical journey from his birth in 1564 to his infamous heresy trial and death in 1642. Galileo's world is illuminated through his own letters and the letters of his friends and enemies. Along the way, kids get to try more than 20 fun activities. Foreword by the world famous astronaut and scientist Buzz Aldrin.