Above and Beyond: Nasa’s Journey to Tomorrow by Olugbemisola Rhuday-Perkovich –OPTIONAL

Above and Beyond: Nasa’s Journey to Tomorrow by Olugbemisola Rhuday-Perkovich, 153 pages. Feiwel and Friends, 2018 $20 Language: G (0 swears); Mature Content: G; Violence: G.

BUYING ADVISORY: MS -OPTIONAL

AUDIENCE APPEAL: LOW

This book is a fairly comprehensive history of space travel, starting with air travel and rockets, then moving into the Apollo missions, and ending with discussion of journeys to mars. It features interesting fact boxes, mini biographies, how children can help with global warming. There are lots of photographs and interesting layouts.

Although rated for 4-6 grades, I felt this was more challenging and would be better for middle school. There was much effort put into engaging with young readers with many pop culture references. I liked that the author addressed women and minorities roles (and lack of recognition) as well as global warming. Every name relevant to space travel seems to be here, which shows how comprehensive this book is. I think the biggest flaw is that the cover is dark and unappealing. Additionally, because its spans the history of space travel, student researchers will only be able to find small bits of information for reports. This would make a great gift for a student who is interesting in space travel.

Reviewer: Stephanie MLS & Author.