"Please let this be a normal field trip," Arnold groaned, sinking into his seat.

As the light faded, the class looked back. A brand-new sun was shining, surrounded by a ring of debris that would one day become planets.

"Bus, take us home!" Ms. Frizzle commanded. With another lurch, the bus splashed back onto the pavement of the school parking lot, looking like an ordinary vehicle once more.

Ms. Frizzle tapped her chalkboard, her earrings—miniature glowing nebulas—jingling with every movement. "Class, today we aren't just studying history," she beamed, her dress patterned with shifting tectonic plates. "We’re going to be part of it!"

"Not yet!" the Friz shouted over the roar of fusion. "The best part is just beginning!"

"It's getting too hot!" Wanda yelled. "We’ve got to get out of here!"

"We’re in a Stellar Nursery!" Carlos shouted, punning immediately, "Talk about a 'starry' eyes view!"

As the kids filed out, Ms. Frizzle leaned out the window. "Remember, class: Take chances, make mistakes, and get messy!"