Brooklyn Astronaut: Jamuel's Journey To The Moon
on Goodreads (14)
What’s inside...
Brooklyn Astronaut is about a eight year old African American boy named Jamuel, who dreams of becoming an astronaut. Raised in a two-parent home, Jamuel goes with his mother, Rebecca, to meet his father, Eddy, at the Brooklyn Science Museum. Along the way, they pick up Jamuel's friends to join them. At the museum, Eddy arranges for a coworker to give Jamuel and his friends a tour, during which Jamuel learns about what it takes to be an astronaut. His parents are proud that Jamuel is not only sociable but also aspires to be a future scientist.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
5-12
Length
42 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What do you think Jamuel felt when he first decided to go to the moon?
How did Jamuel's friends and family help him achieve his dream?
If you could go on an adventure like Jamuel, where would you want to go, and why?
What are some of the biggest challenges that Jamuel faced, and how did he overcome them?
What did you learn from Jamuel's journey?
Tip: Role play these questions
While discussing the book, allow your child to express their thoughts and feelings fully before adding your own insights. This encourages open communication.
Relate the story to real-life scenarios to help children draw parallels and deepen their understanding of the themes.
Ask follow-up questions based on your child's responses to encourage them to think critically and expand their viewpoints.
Highlight the values of perseverance and courage shown by Jamuel, and discuss how these values can be applied in your child’s daily life.
Use the story as an opportunity to explore your child's interests and dreams, encouraging them to dream big like Jamuel.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Perseverance
Explanation: Jamuel faces many challenges on his journey to the moon, but his determination and persistent efforts help him overcome them.
Real-World Application: Children learn the importance of not giving up, even when faced with difficulties, and striving to achieve their goals.
Example Lesson: Curiosity and Learning
Explanation: Jamuel's quest to the moon begins with his fascination about space. The story celebrates his desire to learn and discover new things.
Real-World Application: Encourages children to explore new subjects and interests, and to see learning as an exciting adventure.
Example Lesson: Friendship and Collaboration
Explanation: Throughout his journey, Jamuel receives help from friends and other characters, illustrating the importance of working together and supporting each other.
Real-World Application: Teaches children the value of friendship, teamwork, and how collaboration can help solve problems.
Example Lesson: Problem-Solving
Explanation: Jamuel encounters various obstacles during his journey, each requiring creative thinking and problem-solving to surpass.
Real-World Application: Helps children understand that challenges are opportunities for innovation and encourages them to think creatively in their daily life.
Example Lesson: Courage
Explanation: In facing the unknown and taking risks to reach the moon, Jamuel shows bravery, teaching the importance of courage in pursuit of dreams.
Real-World Application: Inspires children to face their fears and be bold when approaching new or intimidating situations.