Part history lesson, part science class, and funny throughout, The Pluto Files is one of those rare non-fiction reads that keeps you gripped and entertained from beginning to end.

Neil deGrasse Tyson is the inheritor of the throne of Carl Sagan, and he fills the role perfectly with his incredible knowledge, brilliant use of language, and charming wit. All of his books are worth the read, but The Pluto Files is a great place for a non-enthusiast to start. Frankly, the book is worth picking up for the children's letters he published inside alone. They'll have you chuckling as Neil effortlessly tells the narrative of the discovery of Pluto and its final fall from planethood.

Well illustrated, carefully annotated, and humorously written, this book is a great way to start exploring your solar system.