Rocket Boy
Calling space fans of all ages, there’s a new space hero on the block and you are going to LOVE going on an amazing adventures with him – and his cat! Callum and Oscar revel in the simplicity of a cardboard box spaceship which is amped to the max in preparation for a journey of friendship, imagination and an incredible number of space facts.
Jennings meshes fact and fiction skilfully, interweaving them in a way that enhances both. Bridging the difficult transition from picturebook to chapter book perfectly, Jennings’ text is funny, informative and never condescending in tone. Callum is a very knowledgeable boy with space acumen and a can-do attitude in the face of multiple space-related disasters. Lillington’s gloriously colourful illustrations are fresh and funny – introducing many of the visual storytelling elements found in graphic novels.
This book is perfect as a shared read, or for a first chapter book experience for aspiring space explorers. However, enthusiastic beginner readers may need support to access some sophisticated vocabulary. An inspiration for cardboard crafting on rainy days, or a template for planning lunch in zero gravity while accompanied by a cat with attitude, it is all between these covers. A parting shout-out to Callum’s mum whose attitude towards assembling flatpack furniture is nothing short of inspirational!
