👩‍🚀 I have a deep appreciation for STEM books, and this one particularly resonated with me as I also dreamed of becoming an astronaut when I was a child. Aimed at children aged 6 to 9, the book avoids heavy technical jargon about aeronautics or astronauts. Instead, it focuses on themes of friendship, independence, helping others, thinking creatively, and problem-solving. There’s something for everyone to enjoy in this charming story.

🚀 While I felt the story ended somewhat abruptly with some unresolved plot lines, I anticipate that these will be addressed in the subsequent books of the series (three more are already available). The book is relatively short and features delightful illustrations throughout. I believe it would captivate any young reader.

Thank you @netgalley @simonkids for an eARC of this book, which I have read and reviewed honestly and voluntarily.

Thank you to Netgalley and the publishers for giving me access to the free advanced digital copy of this book.

I love a STEM chapter book! Even kids who aren't into space (and most kids are!) will relate to Astrid's story of the difficulties of making new friends and those complicated feelings you have when old friendships evolve. And the representation of a hard of hearing child is an added bonus!

I like that while the fact that our protagonist is hearing impaired matters in this plot, it isn't an "issue", a problem to address. It's just a fact of her character. The plot ends up more about problem solving and being a good friend than overcoming obstacles.