So You Want To Be An Astronaut

A Kids' Guide to Space Exploration, NASA Missions, Astronaut Training, and the Brave Explorers Who Travel Beyond Earth

Children - Non-Fiction
37 Pages
Reviewed on 04/25/2026
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    Book Review

Reviewed by C.R. Hurst for Readers' Favorite

What a smart read for smart kids! Designed for young readers, So You Want To Be An Astronaut by Linda Soules offers the budding space explorer just about everything a kid needs to know about travel beyond our pale blue dot. From where they work, from the tools of the trade, to the best and hardest parts of the job. From the day-to-day routine on the International Space Station, from the people an astronaut will work with, to the most important personal qualities he or she needs to succeed, to inspiring examples of astronauts who did, this book provides plenty of useful information for any child or young teen considering a career as an astronaut.

What I appreciated most about So You Want To Be An Astronaut is its ability to speak honestly in an age-appropriate manner for its intended readers. Author Linda Soules has clearly researched her subject fully, but never allows that research to weigh down the content, illustrating she knows the attention span of her audience well. My favorite part of the book was the profile of Valentina Tereshkova, who at twenty-six applied for the job of cosmonaut on a whim and became the first woman in space. What an inspirational example for young girls she is! The illustrations also add to the book’s appeal with a combination of realistic and cartoon-style illustrations that should appeal to kids of all ages. Parents, too, will appreciate the “Want to Learn More?" section at the end of the book that includes books to read next, websites to explore, and things to do to help their children reach for the stars. A highly recommended introduction to a world of possibilities beyond our own.