About this book

How far to the stars?

This is what a little girl named Mae Jemison wonders as she peers through her telescope and dreams of space. Someday she will make it there, but for now she wonders, learns, and is inspired by the vastness of the universe.

Astronaut, physician, and engineer Mae Jemison's passion would eventually lead to her becoming the first Black woman in space!

Through the Telescope focuses on what first inspired a young Mae Jemison to reach for the stars. Charles R. Smith, Jr. is the award-winning author of the Coretta Scott King Honor Book, Twelve Rounds of Glory, and many other popular and acclaimed titles. His gorgeous text places a spotlight on an American trailblazer who inspires kids everywhere to follow their dreams. Debut illustrator Evening Monteiro's captivating portrayal of a young Mae Jemison is sure to grab young readers' attention!

Perfect for kids who love space exploration and for readers of Hidden Figures and The Undefeated.

Reviews

Praise for Through the Telescope:

"A dreamy tale of space flight to set aspiring astronauts’ minds whirling."--Kirkus Reviews

Praise for Bessie the Motorcycle Queen:

2023 NCSS Septima P. Clark Book Award Winner: Elementary Category

Imagination Soup Best Children's Nonfiction Books of 2022

*"A Black woman whose early 20th-century adventures seem right out of a tall tale... zooms across the pages of this appealing picture book biography... The illustrations and text are full of energy and make for a highly engaging class read." --School Library Journal, starred review

"The illustrations... incorporate color in exciting ways while providing Bessie a classic vibe for her adventures. Unexpected pops of purple, pink, and teal create a strong visual interest that will help draw readers into Bessie's story. A great tale about one bad biker." -- Kirkus Reviews

"A fast-flying starter biography, this tale of motorcycle queen Bessie Stringfield is ideal for fans of cars, travel, racing, and Black history... Add this book to biography collections and look for ways to put it in the hands of readers interested in motorcycles as well as those seeking to learn about the Jim Crow era through a new lens." -- Booklist

"Smith compiles the uncertain details of Stringfield's life story into a digestible tale of a Black woman who lived on her own terms. Kristensen's lively unlined illustrations emphasize bright landscapes."-- Publishers Weekly

"This book is sure to inspire young readers... Engaging." -- Common Sense Media