Astro Girl
(Wonder Kids)

PreS-K--Young Astrid is adamant about her ambitions to become an astronaut. During their day together, Dad reminds her of the challenges: "You'll have to go round and round the Earth in your spaceship" as he spins her around the room. "'You'll also have to get used to zero gravity.' Papa threw her up in the air. "I can do that all day long!' Astrid laughed." They practice doing science experiments together by baking cookies. Astrid seems somewhat sure she'll be able to sleep on her own among the stars. The girl's inspiration comes to light when it's time to pick up Mama from work...at the space center where's she's just returned from a mission. Large acrylic paintings in rich jewel tones bring Astrid's world to life. From her telescope and rocket T-shirt, to her Space Hoops cereal, this preschooler is on her way to achieving her dreams. VERDICT This author/illustrator of the "Max" series continues his perfect connection to young listeners and concludes with 10 fast facts on astronaut history.--Gay Lynn Van Vleck, Henrico County Library, Glen Allen, VA