Willow the Wonderer: Space Odyssey – A Cosmic Lesson about Belonging
Space Odyssey is a epic children's picture book about belonging set amongst the stars. It is the perfect story for any child who has ever felt different or wondered where they fit in. Through a magical rhyming narrative and beautiful illustrations, this book introduces young readers to the Overview Effect — the life-changing realisation that astronauts experience when they see Earth from space for the first time. By shifting their perspective to the cosmos, children understand their interconnectedness with all things and beings back at home, on Earth. They learn to accept their uniqueness while developing empathy towards others who may seem different, understanding that we all come from the same place. Our premium hardcover edition of Space Odyssey is durable and features gold foil details — perfect for gifting, schools and libraries.
The Story: Inspired by the Overview Effect
Willow the Wonderer feels alone one day and wonders why he is different from others everywhere. He sets off to search for other creatures like him but, alas, only sees things that are different in some way. As he is about to give up, he gets beamed up into space by cosmic starlight!
Willow the Wonderer is whisked away on an epic space odyssey. He travels through space and time, taking in the beauty, strength, and fragility of the Earth. As he looks back at the Earth, a profound wisdom dawns upon him—the same wisdom that has dawned upon many astronauts before him.
Known as the "Overview Effect," this realization helps Willow finally understand that which makes us all the same and inherently connected to each other. It even makes him feel at peace with being a little different.
Why Book 3 is a Must-Have:
- The Gift of Belonging: A beautiful children's picture book about belonging that helps kids navigate the feeling of being "different" and find their place in the world.
- Cultivating Empathy & Kindness: By understanding our shared connection to the Earth, children naturally develop empathy for all living things and kindness towards themselves and others. This is a key aspect of Social-Emotional learning (SEL)
- STEM & Astronomy: Space Odyssey serves as a poetic introduction to the science of astronomy, sparking curiosity and wonder about space and our solar system
- Rhyming Narrative: Written in melodic rhyme, this book supports development of literacy skills like phonics and vocabulary development. It also makes for an enchanting read-aloud experience.
- Stunning Space Art: Featuring vibrant illustrations that invoke the Overview Effect on earth, this is destined to be a favourite keepsake on every young stargazer's bookshelf! Illustrations also incorporate seek and find elements to engage even the most reluctant of readers.
Customer Reviews:
"I love it! Was expecting the story to just focus on individual differences being OK and all, but it went in a whole new direction and opened up to a vaster view of our common humanity. It's a fantastic message for children today." — Sian P (Children's Counsellor). ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
"Such beautiful books and such important stories for children (and adults) today! And such gorgeous packaging. I know my little nephews will love this gift. ." — Alison H. ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
"Beginning a love of literature with little people is such a joy and these stories reflect that so beautifully." — Rieki Rolle. ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
"I love your books and the message that they send. The pictures in these books are beautiful and can be used to find different things with your children. I highly recommend these books. Thank you so much." — Cassie D. ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
"These really are the most wonderful books. I just love the positive and empowering messaging and life lessons within the stories. The illustrations are beautiful and so engaging. These are books for young AND old!" — Ellen J. ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Order Willow the Wonderer today to make the most of our amazing offers:
1. Discounted shipping
2. FREE e-Book with every order
3. Gift wrapped :)
Explore the Complete Willow the Wonderer Collection >
A note from the author and illustrator:
"Willow the Wonderer started as a shared dream to create stories that plant seeds of wisdom in young minds; seeds that we hope blossom with time and guide our young readers in their journey through life. We also wanted the books to make early childhood learning effortless. But mostly we wanted to create beautiful stories that the little ones (and big ones) simply fall in love with. These are stories we wish we'd grown up with."
- Reeta and Darren
Willow the Wonderer: Space Odyssey (Book 3) - Premium Hardcover
Feature
Details
Title
Willow the Wonderer: Space Odyssey (Book 3)
Format
Hardcover with elegant gold foil detailing
Age Range
3 – 8 years (Preschool to Early Primary)
Key Themes
Overview Effect, Belonging, Interconnectedness, Empathy, Kindness, Overcoming Aloneness, Modern Fable, Wisdom Stories
Educational Focus
Literacy, Phonics, Vocabulary Development, Introductory Astronomy (STEM), Perspective-Taking (SEL), Environmental Stewardship
Sustainability
Printed on FSC-certified paper (Forest Stewardship Council)
Dimensions
285mm x 215mm x 8mm (Portrait)
Weight
390 grams
ISBN
9780645083347
Creators
Reeta Dhar (Author) & Darren Pryce (Illustrator)
Origin
Proudly Australian
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