Reasons to Look at the Night Sky

Synopsis:

A sensitive middle grade novel in verse about a space-obsessed girl who dreams of becoming an astronaut — and begins to see the world differently when a substitute teacher enters her orbit.

Luna has always loved the night sky. She's an eleven-year-old who knows everything there is to know about space, and dreams of one day becoming an astronaut. The first step in her plan to get there is to ace the space unit in her science class and secure a spot in NASA's summer space camp.

But when Luna's teacher is unexpectedly replaced with a substitute, Ms. Manitowabi, who is looking to shake up science class by bringing in art, Luna's carefully laid plans are crushed. And that's not all that's shifting in Luna's life — changes at home and in her friendships have her feeling topsy-turvy. What on Planet Earth is happening?

Reasons to Look at the Night Sky is an endearing, poetic look at the inner world of a middle schooler grappling with change from acclaimed author and illustrator Danielle Daniel.

Reviews
"Luna’s love of space and fear of change may endear her to similarly minded kids. . . . A solid story about dealing with discomfort and change." —Kirkus Reviews

"This quick read has many STEAM applications and will easily appeal to aspiring astronauts while also potentially sparking interest in more-complex verse and narratives." —Booklist

"This book will resonate with readers who are navigating the trials of adolescence and the difficulty of embracing the unknown, as well as those interested in space and mythology." —School Library Journal

Educator Information
Recommended for ages 9 to 12.

Subjects / Themes: Astronauts & Space; Emotions & Feelings; Stories in Verse (Poetry)

Additional Information
328 pages | 5.75" x 8.50" | Hardcover