Rocket Ship, Solo Trip
Illustrated by Scott Magoon
A young rocket braves the unknown on her first journey into space, in a celebration of the big firsts of life's littlest explorers. With brilliant art by NYT-bestselling illustrator, Scott Magoon, this rhyming picture book is perfect for fans of Goodnight, Goodnight, Construction Site.
“First time jitters? That’s okay.
Find one small step to lead the way.”
Rocket is embarking on her first solo mission. Her goal? Place a satellite into orbit to take pictures of the beautiful unknown. With a few words of encouragement from Ground Control, Rocket sparks ignition and blasts off to discover all the beauty of outer space. But when it’s time for reentry, she wonders if she can do it alone. With Ground Control’s parting words in mind, Rocket trusts that she knows exactly what to do. She returns home at hypersonic speed and excited for her future expeditions…maybe next time, to the moon. Rocket Ship, Solo Trip explores all the complicated emotions of big firsts and reminds readers that no matter how far they go, the ones they love are always close by.
A Note from Chiara
This story was inspired in part by my own youthful dreams of space journeying, in part by my young son’s love for rocket ships, and in part by our favorite rhyming picture books which we reach for time and again on the shelves. When I couldn’t find a picture book for my son featuring a rocket ship as the main character, I decided to write one for him. Little did I know that Rocket's story would help me fulfill my lifelong dreams of becoming an author, landing me my first book deal after over a decade of writing stories. And in doing so, it has launched me into so many exciting big firsts of my own, with my son cheering me on at my side!
All the buzz
⭐️ "The storytelling is effective, amplified by Magoon’s simple shapes and easy-to-guess facial expressions... A generous amount of information is dispensed in accessible terms and accompanied by friendly scenes that parallel an elementary age student’s first solo project. VERDICT Wondrous—a book that says, “You’ve got this,” seamlessly stirred into a STEM title." — School Library Journal, starred review
One of Amazon's Top 20 Children's Books of the Year So Far, 2024
An Amazon Editors' Pick, "Best Books for Ages 3-5"
Lemuria Books' First Edition Club Picture Book pick for March 2024
“Little ones trying new things will be encouraged...Blends social-emotional learning and STEM with engaging illustrations for a memorable trip into space.” — Kirkus Reviews
"Debut author Colombi’s energetic rhyming verse propels the action. Magoon’s digital cartoon illustrations capture the movement and momentum of the exciting journey...Rocket’s relatable range of emotions can be read on her anthropomorphized face, from eyebrows furrowed in apprehension before takeoff to a glow of serene satisfaction when her mission is accomplished. With guidance and encouragement, Rocket bravely leaps to greater heights by taking small steps. This debut picture book encourages young readers to follow Rocket’s lead and soar." — Booklist
Available wherever books are sold
And don't forget your local library! I'd share a link to every library if I could. :)
