It’s not every day that an astronaut mom goes to space, bringing a copy of her published book, and then does a live read-aloud from the Dragon (SpaceX) Capsule. Anna Menon has done just that with this special book titled “Kisses from Space.”  In this story, a dragon mom must leave her children to go to space, but she is thinking of them the entire time – from training to landing home. The rhyming verse is clunky at times, but the illustrations are very unique and sculptural lending a three-dimensional effect to the pages. While the story itself feels very specific, it could be used for reassuring children when parents need to travel for work (even if they’re not an astronaut). The story does include a promise of “I’ll always come home”, so should be up to caregiver discretion if that’s appropriate for their situation. Still a very unique book from a trailblazing woman, that would also be a great example for young girls. Recommended for ages 5-7 (Kindergarten to 2^nd Grade).

Reviewed by: Jenn Mead, Charlotte Hobbs Memorial Library, Lovell