This volume in the Science Exploration series (6 titles) digs into the technicalities of the search for life on other planets. After explaining the conditions that enable a planet to sustain life, the text briefly explains the scientific breakthroughs, many of them recent, in space exploration, from the planets we've located outside our solar system (exoplanets) to the things that the Curiosity rover has found on Mars, somewhat closer to home. Upcoming initiatives and the discoveries--and contact--that scientists hope to make in the near future are alluded to. STEM Focus sidebars provide additional information and increase the sci-tech angle. Kids hoping for tall tales about UFOs might be disappointed, but for those interested in the genuine science behind life on other planets, there's plenty of good information here.--Booklist