The Space Between Stars
The CBC selects a theme to spotlight in each month’s Hot Off the Press list, helping parents, teachers, librarians, booksellers, and children’s book enthusiasts discover standout new titles from our member publishers.
From distant galaxies to the corners of our own imaginations, these books from our November Hot Off the Press list explore space in all its wonder—both the cosmic kind and the spaces we create for curiosity, courage, and connection. Whether through laugh-out-loud adventures, fascinating facts, or heartfelt journeys, each story invites readers to look up and dream big. Together, they remind us that exploration begins not just with a rocket, but with a question. As these characters chart unknown worlds, they show us how discovery—of the universe and of ourselves—can open endless possibilities.
The First Cat in Space and the Baby Pirate’s Revenge, by Mac Barnett; illustrated by Shawn Harris (HarperCollins / HarperAlley) — Humor, Action / Adventure, Animals, Imagination / Play, ages 7-12.
In the fourth installment of Mac Barnett and Shawn Harris’s New York Times-bestselling series our heroes—First Cat, LOZ 4000, and the Moon Queen— encounter Captain Babybeard and his crew of swashbuckling pirates.
After Captain Babybeard steals a treasure map from the Queen of the Moon, the notorious pirate sees nothing but piles of gold in his future. But a mutiny, led by his first mate, the Martian Pirate James Plantain, leaves Babybeard marooned on a deserted island. Betrayed by his crew, the little captain seeks an unlikely alliance…
Will Captain Babybeard get revenge? Will First Cat, the Moon Queen, and LOZ 4000 recover their treasure map? Or will the moon fall into the hands of a nefarious banana?
Liftoff!: How the Apollo Moon Missions Made Alma Thomas’s Art Soar, written & illustrated by Nina Crews (Lerner Publishing Group / Millbrook Press) — Biography / Memoir, Art / Performing Arts, STEM / STEAM, History, ages 7-12.
The Apollo astronauts gave people a new way of looking at the world—and so did modern artist Alma Thomas.
In 1969, people around the world watched as the Apollo 10 astronauts sent the first-ever live color television broadcasts from space. Abstract painter Alma Thomas was among those watching, and afterward, she began a series of bright, bold pieces inspired by the Moon missions and the marvels of space exploration.
In a dual narrative that weaves together key moments from the Apollo 10 mission with Alma’s process creating Snoopy Sees a Sunrise, celebrated author and illustrator Nina Crews presents a fascinating STEAM-themed perspective on an incredible scientific endeavor—and an incredible artist.
My First Space Discoveries, by Oldřich Růžička; illustrated by Tomáš Tůma (Albatros) — Science / Nature, STEM / STEAM, Places / Travel, Facts / Trivia, ages 4-6.
Blast Off to Space! Young Readers First Awesome Adventure Through Our Solar System!
Little explorers, get ready for an out-of-this-world adventure! This fun and exciting board book is your ticket to discovering the amazing wonders of outer space. From our Sun to the very edges of the Solar System, you’ll take a fun-filled tour and learn fascinating facts along the way. Young readers will learn unique details about each planet and even get a sneak peek at the technology that helps us explore the cosmos. Did you know you can even spot some of these amazing cosmic bodies with just your eyes or a telescope? Get ready to gaze at millions of twinkling stars and faraway galaxies in this first journey into the vastness of space! Get ready for liftoff!
The Perfect Planet, by Suzanne Slade; illustrated by Sam Valentino (NSTA Kids) — Science / Nature, Action / Adventure, Facts / Trivia, ages 7-12.
Two young explorers embark on an exciting journey in search of the perfect planet. As they travel through outer space, they discover and visit incredible exoplanets—from scorching gas giants to mini-Neptunes—that exist beyond our solar system. Along the way, these space travelers learn what makes our planet, Earth, unique and special. Ideal for grades 1–4, The Perfect Planet will spark imaginations, build science literacy, and inspire kids to care for the incredible planet we call home—Earth!
This entertaining and fictional adventure incorporates real science, helping kids grasp essential concepts such as orbit, atmosphere, gravity, and more. A glossary of scientific terms equips readers with the right words and definitions to enhance their understanding of all things outer space.
Readers are captivated by the mysterious world of outer space through a dynamic narrative explicitly designed for children in grades 1–4. Perfect for inquisitive readers, budding scientists, and classroom adventurers alike.
As the young travelers embark on their journey to discover their favorite planet and explore the unique world of exoplanets, they cultivate a deeper appreciation for the scientific qualities that Earth provides humanity, allowing us to thrive and prosper.
Vera Astronauta / Vera the Astronaut, by Susanna Isern (English edition translated by Cecilia Ross); illustrated by Marta Moreno (NubeOcho) — Spanish, Social Activism / Equality / Feminism, Social Emotional Learning, Technology / Inventions, Friendships, ages 4-6.
At the Great Space Academy, where future astronauts are trained, there are very few girls. Vera is a brilliant girl and passes one test after another, but there are some boys in her class who think that girls shouldn’t be astronauts and they do everything they can to stop her. Will Vera succeed despite the obstacles?
After Martina the Soccer Star, Susanna Isern and Marta Moreno come together again to bring us Vera the Astronaut, a fun book to empower girls to dream BIG and do anything they want!
For more great book suggestions, be sure to check out the full November Hot Off the Press list!
List compiled by CBC’s resident children’s book aficionado, Brooke Pisarsky. Check out other Hot Off the Press Spotlight booklists on our blog.
