This book, written for young people ages eight to twelve, tells readers
in clear terms what meteorites are, where they come from, what kinds
there are, how to look for them, what to look for if you find a rock you
think might be a meteorite. It encourages scientific exploration,
because the truth is anyone can find a meteorite. Souvenirs from Space
also tells the story of Fort Worth lawyer Oscar Monnig who became known
as the "Meteorite Man from Texas." He spent many years searching for
meteorites in Texas and Oklahoma, following stories of meteorites
sightings, often running into dead ends, but just as often finding
another gem for his collection. In his lifetime he collected almost 400
meteorites. He donated his collection to the geology department at TCU
and provided for the establishment of the Monnig Meteorite Gallery,
which is open to the public. Fort Worth school children frequently tour
the gallery as part of their science study. Souvenirs from Space is
designed for children who visit the gallery, to give them a lasting
souvenir of their lesson about meteorites. But it's also for any child
interested in astronomy or meteorites. It will make them, too, want to
visit the gallery.