I Built a Rocket Ship by Anna Lazowski, Jennica Lounsbury
Published by Kids Can Press on June 2, 2026
ISBN: 152531131X
Pages: 32
Genres: Emotions & Feelings, Family Life, Grief
Format: Picture Book Fiction
Source: MSL Book Review
Goodreads

I Built A Rocket Ship is a simple yet powerful book about what it feels like from a child’s perspective after the passing of her mother. The child’s words to her mother are somewhat epistolary: “You…said when you were gone, I’d still feel you near me. But I don’t. Not really. So I’m building a rocket ship out in the backyard.” The child is very tenacious in her quest to build a giant rocket ship out of cardboard and she brings in her special items, including her cat. As she stares at the constellations, she imagines her mother up there, and it’s clear how much she is grieving the loss of her. The illustrations and muted colors are very soft and comforting for readers. This is a lovely addition to any picture book collection, but especially sections about grief and loss. Recommended for ages 4+.

Reviewed by Gia Charles, Patten Free Library, Bath