A simple but informative text, and cartoon-like acrylic illustrations are paired to great effect in Meghan McCarthy's Astronaut Handbook, which offers a fun, fact-filled look at a common childhood dream: traveling to outer space! For the young reader who had wondered what qualifications they need, to become an astronaut (study hard, children, and learn to be a team player!), or what the training process involves (space food! the "Vomit Comet!"), this title will fill them in, allowing them to follow four young space cadets through the process.

A book that reminds me a bit of Faith McNulty's similar If You Decide To Go To The Moon, which offers a picture-book advice manual for space-bound youngsters, Astronaut Handbook captures the excitement of space travel, and the allure of the stars. I don't know that the style of illustrations is really my cup of tea, but it works well with the simple text, and I imagine that young readers will find it very fun. All in all, an entertaining look at a perennially popular topic, one I recommend to all those youngsters who dream of walking on the moon, or exploring the stars... ( )

Simply written in language that second grade students would comprehend, this book shares the training that astronauts must do to get ready to go on a mission to outer space. It encourages the reader to work hard so that they can be astronauts one day.

A very uplifting book for students. I love the simple language but the explanations of everything an astronaut must be able to do before leaving Earth. I think this would be a great addition to any classroom library. ( )

A perfect introduction to a career in space exploration. Suitable for younger readers or storytime, this non-fiction picture book is humorously illustrated in colorful , double-spread acrylic paintings. Using simple text,
"You've done the hard stuff, and now it's time to have some fun! A special plane nicknamed the Vomit Comet will take you high in the sky and then ZOOM back down. As a result, you'll be able to FLOAT! It might upset your stomach, but you'll get the hang of it," Astronaut Handbook offers a glimpse into the versatility of astronauts (pilots, scientists, mechanics) as well as the myriad requirements that make space travel possible (space suits, space toilets, freeze-dried ice cream, wilderness training and more). Fascinating Facts, Places to Visit, and Bibliography follow the story. ( )

Welcome to Astronaut School space cadets! Learn about different kinds of astronauts, what they eat in space, and what it takes to become an astronaut. See if you have what it takes to see the world from outer space. Ages 5-10 ( )