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Monday, May 29, 2023

The Only Astronaut, written by Mahak Jain and illustrated by Andrea Stegmaier. Kids Can Press, 2023. $21.99 ages 4 and up

 


"Alpha didn't work out, but astronauts never give up. 
I need a human assistant, someone who can imagine 
life beyond Earth. 

Does Kai want to visit outer space with me? 

Kai needs help entering the rocket ship. 

Stop wiggling ... "

It's a lonely life being the one climbing aboard a makeshift spacecraft created by the 'only astronaut'. There is much to explore in the neighborhood; going solo is a tough job. There are numerous obstacles. A crash requires some work, putting an end to the original mission plan. A new mission has an important goal: find an assistant. 

Avni's dog shows little aptitude for space exploration. Might Kai be ready to blast off with her? Avni can only hope. When Kai fills his diaper, that mission must be aborted. An expanded search is long, but successful. A worthy assistant finds Avni and begins training with her. They are perfect for each other - or are they? A few bumps along the way are handled, and the two finally settle into being a commendable team, using friendship and imagination to create untold adventures. Hurray for cooperation! 

Winning pencil artwork completed digitally adds humor and creativity to the telling. The handwritten mission notes are engaging and detailed. 

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