Rocket Beams, Lunar Dreams by Chiara Colombi and illustrated by Scott Magoon is due in February 2025. However, I am glad I had the opportunity to read via an online reader’s copy. The book’s theme is not new, but told in a way that even I learned a few things and I am terribly excited to put this on teacher and parent radars.
The idea is about envy and jealousy. Rocket is ready to go to the moon. She can’t wait! Except at the last minute she learns that Lunar is coming, too. And he will be the one who gets to explore the vastness of the moon. Not Rocket. At first Rocket is quiet, pouting and unable to talk to Lunar, even as she notices that there is something wrong (he is turning a paler color than usual). But finally, she asks and learns that Lunar is afraid of heights! In the next three days it takes to get themselves situated to land, the two become friends.
As I said, this has been done before. However, even though Rocket comes to the feeling of excitement for her new friend about his adventure, two things happen: One Lunar tells her he wishes he could fly in space, always a new place; while she confesses her wish of exploring. So the line about wishes not always coming true was great. Books tend to say, “If you wish hard enough you will get it.” Well, that’s not always the case. And the second thing is while Rocket is happy for Lunar, the sting is still there! THE STING IS STILL THERE! Let’s say it so the people in the back hear! As an adult I realized that you can be happy for your friend, but that doesn’t mean you are not still envious of their good fortune. And this is how I define jealousy vs. envy: at first Rocket is jealous. Lunar has something she wants. At the end, she is envious. But this is not a bad thing. It is okay to be disappointed that you didn’t get it, but that doesn’t mean you begrudge your friends success.
Then there are the illustrations of Magoon. The mostly rhyming, bouncing text gets the colorful, cartoon treatment. Things are simple, but not lacking in information. The colors are good, things are young looking, but have a mature theme. While not dealing with space related facts/story it is good for those interested in it, while also being educational in a clever, not overly preachy manner. The lack of traditional action (no explosions or issues with landing, just a little shaking) might make it not for the active child, but it would work great if you see any of the themes popping up between siblings, cousins, students, etc. And while most ages (from around 5 to 8; and adult) could enjoy, the younger look might turn off the older reader.
