An accessible, engaging explanation and exploration of what we know about black holes uses an inviting, friendly tone and dynamic illustrations to convey a wealth of scientific information. Author Carolyn Cinami DeCristofano’s often playful comparisons and descriptions will help readers wrap their minds around this infinite concept. For example, imagine a stretchy blanket onto which you toss a peanut holding all the elephants in the world inside. “The blanket stretches and stretches, pulling out of shape. It forms … a steep well that’s really a lot like … a hole!” Michael Carroll’s dramatic illustrations of space are always carefully labeled as an artist’s interpretations to distinguish them from photographs, which are also used in this engaging work that concludes with a glossary, an author’s note on her research, and resources in print and on the Web. (Ages 9–13)