Astro Girl
Wonder Kids Series
What’s inside...
The stars are the limit for a little girl named Astrid who dreams of becoming an astronaut. She spends her days acting out space missions with her papa while her mama is away. They simulate zero gravity, eat food from tubes, and conduct science experiments. Her adventure is fueled by her passion for the stars and space, which she has loved for as long as she can remember. Astrid's enthusiasm is infectious, and her story is brought to life with a sense of childlike delight. The book culminates in an inspiring ending when Astrid gets to meet her mama at the air base, who has been away on a very special mission.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
4-8
Length
32 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What do you think Astrid felt when she imagined going to space?
How did Astrid's dad help her prepare for her space adventure?
Why do you think it's important to have dreams like Astrid?
What would you pack for a trip to space and why?
How can we support each other's dreams like Astrid and her dad?
Tip: Role play these questions
Start by sharing your thoughts on Astrid’s adventure and ask your child to imagine their own space journey. Relate the story to your child’s everyday experiences by discussing the roles of support and encouragement in achieving goals. Encourage imaginative play by asking your child to draw or act out their version of a space adventure. Highlight the importance of dreams and how they drive us to learn and grow.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Pursuing Dreams
Explanation: In 'Astro Girl', the young protagonist, Astrid, aspires to become an astronaut like her mother. Throughout the story, her determination and preparation are highlighted.
Real-World Application: Children can learn the importance of setting goals and working diligently towards achieving them, fostering a sense of ambition and diligence in their everyday activities.
Example Lesson: Gender Equality
Explanation: The book challenges traditional gender roles by portraying Astrid's passion for space exploration, a field typically dominated by males, and highlights her mother as a successful astronaut.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to pursue interests irrespective of gender stereotypes, promoting equality and self-confidence in any chosen field.
Example Lesson: The Value of Support
Explanation: Astrid's mother and friends support her dreams, showing how encouragement can positively impact someone's confidence and motivation.
Real-World Application: Children learn to appreciate and seek support from others around them, while also providing encouragement to peers, enhancing social interactions and empathy.
Example Lesson: Learning Through Play
Explanation: Astrid engages in activities that simulate astronaut training which are fun yet educational, emphasizing that learning can be enjoyable.
Real-World Application: This can motivate children to engage in educational play, discovering new interests and learning new skills through enjoyable activities.
Example Lesson: Family Bonds
Explanation: The story showcases the close relationship between Astrid and her mother, emphasizing the importance of family support in personal achievements.
Real-World Application: Children are encouraged to value and nurture family relationships, understanding the role of familial support in personal and academic success.