By Tegan Tigani

"Astronaut Handbook" by Meghan McCarthy

Alfred A. Knopf Books for Young Readers

If you have ever dreamed about traveling to space, you'll love "Astronaut Handbook". Part pep talk, part reference, part career guide, the book is totally entertaining thanks to the bold illustrations and humor throughout.

The author/illustrator has a clear respect and enthusiasm for astronauts. The big-eyed, smiling astronauts are a diverse and happy bunch as they study, train and go on missions. I especially love that McCarthy emphasizes the mental as well as physical preparation necessary for a successful career in space. She encourages the potential astronaut to "study hard in school" (with texts of Basic Russian, Physics, Aeronautics, Environmental Science, Biochemistry and Mechanical Engineering looming large in an exciting laboratory scene) and "be a team player" since you'll be working with your team in small spaces.

I remember hoarding freeze-dried ice cream after a field trip to the Air and Space Museum in grade school, so I was very pleased to see it featured. Also of great interest is the page on the space toilet and another with details about the spacesuit. (The toilet is a little intimidating with its printed instructions posted and thigh restraints, but kids will be intrigued by the "vacuum for solids" and "hose for liquids!") The book also includes a handy page of "Fascinating Facts" and a full bibliography.

(Every Tuesday Queen Anne Books book buyer Tegan Tigani tells us what's worth reading in children's literature.)