What do you think?
Rate this book
Farther Than the Moon
From award-winning author Lindsay Lackey comes Farther Than the Moon, a heartfelt story about a boy who wants to become an astronaut, but wonders if his dreams can include his brother with disabilities, perfect for fans of We Dream of Space and Song for a Whale.
All thirteen-year-old Houston Stewart has ever wanted is to become an astronaut. His dreams feel like they're finally coming true when he's accepted to the highly-competitive Junior Astronaut Recruitment Program – if only he could bring his little brother, Robbie, with him.
Ever since their dad left, Houston and Robbie have been inseparable. It's hard to tell where Houston's love of space ends and where Robbie's begins. But Robbie's cerebral palsy and epilepsy mean he needs medical attention at home, so Houston is forced to take this giant leap for the two of them all on his own.
At camp, Houston is quickly drawn into the orbit of new friends, cosmic adventures, and a long-lost grandfather. But as Houston struggles to meet the program's rigorous demands, he’s forced to reckon with the truth that Robbie may never visit space like the brothers have always hoped. But Houston is determined to honor Robbie’s dream, even if it seems like an impossible mission. So, like a good astronaut, he dares to make a new plan — one that shoots for the stars.
A Macmillan Audio production from Roaring Brook Press.
All thirteen-year-old Houston Stewart has ever wanted is to become an astronaut. His dreams feel like they're finally coming true when he's accepted to the highly-competitive Junior Astronaut Recruitment Program – if only he could bring his little brother, Robbie, with him.
Ever since their dad left, Houston and Robbie have been inseparable. It's hard to tell where Houston's love of space ends and where Robbie's begins. But Robbie's cerebral palsy and epilepsy mean he needs medical attention at home, so Houston is forced to take this giant leap for the two of them all on his own.
At camp, Houston is quickly drawn into the orbit of new friends, cosmic adventures, and a long-lost grandfather. But as Houston struggles to meet the program's rigorous demands, he’s forced to reckon with the truth that Robbie may never visit space like the brothers have always hoped. But Houston is determined to honor Robbie’s dream, even if it seems like an impossible mission. So, like a good astronaut, he dares to make a new plan — one that shoots for the stars.
A Macmillan Audio production from Roaring Brook Press.
352 pages, Paperback
First published September 19, 2023
47 people are currently reading
2816 people want to read
About the author
Lindsay Lackey
13 books141 followersLindsay Lackey has trained as an opera singer, worked in children’s and teen services at the public library, and for a major publishing house in publicity and marketing. Born and raised in Colorado, she now lives in the San Francisco Bay Area with her husband and their spoiled dog. All the Impossible Things is her debut novel.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 123 reviews
February 23, 2025
From author's note:
Carl Sagan famously said that we are made of star stuff. That means the universe is a part of each and every one of us. It only makes sense, then, that the joy, challenge, and privilege of exploring it belongs to all humankind: male, female, nonbinary, disabled, nondisabled, tall, short, child, adult, religious, nonreligious, all ethnicities, identities, and places of origin. You. Me. All of us.
Beautiful wonderful book 📖 ❤️.
I looked down at our planet and couldn’t see a single border or policy or ethnicity or belief system. From three hundred miles up, Earth is magnificently united. There is so much that divides us here on the ground. But up there, gazing out at the wild, vast galaxy, you realize there is no life—no life—anywhere else that we know of. All we have is this one planet. Earth is our only spaceship. And we are all its crew.”
The world 🌎 isn't always kind to people who are different than the social norm. (Just look at reality right now especially).
Disabled people are human too and can contribute to the planet as well.
Any one of us could become disabled.
You could lose a limb, get a brain injury, become paralyzed from any number of causes.
Wouldn't you want to be treated like a human ?
Everyone deserves to been seen and heard, not made to feel less than.
“It really sucks how much the world isn’t equal,” she said.
“I mean, it’s just so hard for people who are different at all to fit in. Not ‘fit in’ like finding friends, although that’s hard, too. I mean ‘fit in’ like function, you know? It seems like everything is built for one kind of person, and if you’re too short or too tall or if you have a disability or communicate differently or whatever, then too bad. Figure it out.”
This'll get you laughing and tearing up.
The relationship Houston has with Robbie is so sweet and beautiful 😍. Love how close they are with their mother also.
Just wanted hug everyone 🤗.
Loved also how Houston learned new things, not just at JARP. I was so proud of him many times in the story.
Seeing him and his friends grow closer and learn from their mistakes/missteps.
Would highly recommend 👌 👍🏼 👏.
Carl Sagan famously said that we are made of star stuff. That means the universe is a part of each and every one of us. It only makes sense, then, that the joy, challenge, and privilege of exploring it belongs to all humankind: male, female, nonbinary, disabled, nondisabled, tall, short, child, adult, religious, nonreligious, all ethnicities, identities, and places of origin. You. Me. All of us.
Beautiful wonderful book 📖 ❤️.
I looked down at our planet and couldn’t see a single border or policy or ethnicity or belief system. From three hundred miles up, Earth is magnificently united. There is so much that divides us here on the ground. But up there, gazing out at the wild, vast galaxy, you realize there is no life—no life—anywhere else that we know of. All we have is this one planet. Earth is our only spaceship. And we are all its crew.”
The world 🌎 isn't always kind to people who are different than the social norm. (Just look at reality right now especially).
Disabled people are human too and can contribute to the planet as well.
Any one of us could become disabled.
You could lose a limb, get a brain injury, become paralyzed from any number of causes.
Wouldn't you want to be treated like a human ?
Everyone deserves to been seen and heard, not made to feel less than.
“It really sucks how much the world isn’t equal,” she said.
“I mean, it’s just so hard for people who are different at all to fit in. Not ‘fit in’ like finding friends, although that’s hard, too. I mean ‘fit in’ like function, you know? It seems like everything is built for one kind of person, and if you’re too short or too tall or if you have a disability or communicate differently or whatever, then too bad. Figure it out.”
This'll get you laughing and tearing up.
The relationship Houston has with Robbie is so sweet and beautiful 😍. Love how close they are with their mother also.
Just wanted hug everyone 🤗.
Loved also how Houston learned new things, not just at JARP. I was so proud of him many times in the story.
Seeing him and his friends grow closer and learn from their mistakes/missteps.
Would highly recommend 👌 👍🏼 👏.
May 2, 2024
Great audio. Cute and inspirational story. Loved all the details and emotion. The author clearly knows her stuff and di her research on both astronauts and cerebral palsy, and I love reading stories about things I’m not super familiar with. There is a high lean on NASA and other space programs not being accessible to the disabled. So that was interesting.
Here’s where it lost me. In the author’s note. Yes, I made it all the way through the book, enjoyed it, and then bam, she mentions importance of diversity in programs like NASA, and junior space programs…and includes nonbinary people. Come on now, this is a middle grade book. Simply addressing the issue of white men being the only people allowed to be astronauts is clear enough. Now we need to bring gender confusion into the mix for CHILDREN?! No thanks.
I have loved this author. All the Impossible things was my daughter’s favorite book for years. My daughter even wrote to the author a sweet note thanking her for writing such a beautiful book….and the author eventually wrote back.
But I’m so tired of books slipping this in and making it perfectly normalized. I can get behind diversity until we start spreading confusion about the only two genders: male and female. But definitely not a children’s book. Give me a break.
I tried to allow my stars to reflect the story and not the author’s note, but alas.
**Thank you to the audio publishers for a review copy of the audiobook. My opinions are *clearly* my own.
Here’s where it lost me. In the author’s note. Yes, I made it all the way through the book, enjoyed it, and then bam, she mentions importance of diversity in programs like NASA, and junior space programs…and includes nonbinary people. Come on now, this is a middle grade book. Simply addressing the issue of white men being the only people allowed to be astronauts is clear enough. Now we need to bring gender confusion into the mix for CHILDREN?! No thanks.
I have loved this author. All the Impossible things was my daughter’s favorite book for years. My daughter even wrote to the author a sweet note thanking her for writing such a beautiful book….and the author eventually wrote back.
But I’m so tired of books slipping this in and making it perfectly normalized. I can get behind diversity until we start spreading confusion about the only two genders: male and female. But definitely not a children’s book. Give me a break.
I tried to allow my stars to reflect the story and not the author’s note, but alas.
**Thank you to the audio publishers for a review copy of the audiobook. My opinions are *clearly* my own.
November 1, 2025
فوقالعاده قشنگ بود. بهشدت زیبا، ملموس و دوستداشتنی. اولش فکر میکردم کتابی با موضوع فضا برام جذابیتی نداره اما بعد از خوندنش، شد یکی از بهترین کتابهایی که خوندم.
داستان هیوستون و برادرش رابی (که کمتوانه و فلج مغزی داره) که عاشق اینن که به فضا برن. هیوستون در جارپ، طرح استعدادیابی فضانوردان نوجوان، بورسیه میگیره و آموزش میبینه و سعی میکنه تلاش کنه راهی برای به فضا رفتن افراد کمتوانی مثل برادرش پیدا کنه.
یه داستان زیبا و الهامبخش بهخصوص با شخصیت فردی کمتوان که احساسات این افراد رو درک کنیم و بدونیم که دنیا و آرزوهاش برای همه یکسانه و برای افراد کمتوان تا میتونیم تلاش کنیم که اونها هم بتونن مثل ما به آرزوهاشون برسن حتی رفتن به فضا.
داستان خیلی ملموس و زیبا روایت شده و شخصیت هیوستون، رابی، دوستان هیوستون در جارپ و از همه مهمتر ارتباط بین مادر هیوستون با پدربزرگش، کری ب ادریک، که واقعا فضانورد بوده و داستان این خانواده تخیلی بوده درباره این فضانورد.
نویسنده از تجربیات رابرت استیوارت که یه فضانورد واقعیه استفاده کرده که کتاب به واقعیترین شکل ممکن روایت شه. کلی هم اطلاعات فضایی زیبا توش هست.
با خوندن درباره فضا فهمیدم همه ما نقطهای کوچک از این فضای بیکران در دنیا هستیم. بسیار زیبا، احساساتی و الهابخش بود و از خوندنش بهشدت لذت بردم و به همه پیشنهادش میدم.
داستان هیوستون و برادرش رابی (که کمتوانه و فلج مغزی داره) که عاشق اینن که به فضا برن. هیوستون در جارپ، طرح استعدادیابی فضانوردان نوجوان، بورسیه میگیره و آموزش میبینه و سعی میکنه تلاش کنه راهی برای به فضا رفتن افراد کمتوانی مثل برادرش پیدا کنه.
یه داستان زیبا و الهامبخش بهخصوص با شخصیت فردی کمتوان که احساسات این افراد رو درک کنیم و بدونیم که دنیا و آرزوهاش برای همه یکسانه و برای افراد کمتوان تا میتونیم تلاش کنیم که اونها هم بتونن مثل ما به آرزوهاشون برسن حتی رفتن به فضا.
داستان خیلی ملموس و زیبا روایت شده و شخصیت هیوستون، رابی، دوستان هیوستون در جارپ و از همه مهمتر ارتباط بین مادر هیوستون با پدربزرگش، کری ب ادریک، که واقعا فضانورد بوده و داستان این خانواده تخیلی بوده درباره این فضانورد.
نویسنده از تجربیات رابرت استیوارت که یه فضانورد واقعیه استفاده کرده که کتاب به واقعیترین شکل ممکن روایت شه. کلی هم اطلاعات فضایی زیبا توش هست.
با خوندن درباره فضا فهمیدم همه ما نقطهای کوچک از این فضای بیکران در دنیا هستیم. بسیار زیبا، احساساتی و الهابخش بود و از خوندنش بهشدت لذت بردم و به همه پیشنهادش میدم.
September 19, 2023
This book was an unexpected gem! A middle grade that was filled with fun facts about space, true friendship and a realistic look at disability. Houston’s brother Robbie has severe cerebral palsy and both of them have the dream of becoming astronauts. Houston is able to go to a monthlong astronaut camp while Robbie has to stay home. Houston meets a good group of friends along with his long lost grandpa and realizes how important it is for everyone to be seen, no matter their circumstance. This book made me tear up at times and the author’s note made me love it even more. I highly recommend this one!
January 12, 2024
I was a little disappointed with Farther Than the Moon. Lindsay Lackeys first novel, All the Impossible Things, is one of my very favorite middle grade books. (so I expected to enjoy this one a lot, too.) However there were a few things I just didn’t like about it.
#1 the overused phrases. For example, Robbie’s “cheeseball grin” seemed to be used way too much, like it’s cute once or twice, but If that’s the only way you can describe his smile it just gets… old? Another example i noticed is the smell of their shampoo. It’s mentioned several times, the smell of peoples hair. It just seemed a bit excessive.
#2 it honestly just wasn’t interesting to me, it could be because I’m not really that into astronauts and outer space but it just wasn’t holding my attention like All the Impossible Things did.
#3 I didn’t like the characters, I didn’t feel invested in their lives and stories. They just felt boring, honestly.
I want to point out that I think Lindsay Lackey is a good author, (like I’ve mentioned already I absolutely love All the Impossible Things), And I know that I probably shouldn’t have started this book with the expectation that it would be as good as her first, but I did. Which of course is totally my fault!
I think If Lindsay Lackey does publish another book in the near future I will most definitely read it, but I just wasn’t a big fan of this one.
#1 the overused phrases. For example, Robbie’s “cheeseball grin” seemed to be used way too much, like it’s cute once or twice, but If that’s the only way you can describe his smile it just gets… old? Another example i noticed is the smell of their shampoo. It’s mentioned several times, the smell of peoples hair. It just seemed a bit excessive.
#2 it honestly just wasn’t interesting to me, it could be because I’m not really that into astronauts and outer space but it just wasn’t holding my attention like All the Impossible Things did.
#3 I didn’t like the characters, I didn’t feel invested in their lives and stories. They just felt boring, honestly.
I want to point out that I think Lindsay Lackey is a good author, (like I’ve mentioned already I absolutely love All the Impossible Things), And I know that I probably shouldn’t have started this book with the expectation that it would be as good as her first, but I did. Which of course is totally my fault!
I think If Lindsay Lackey does publish another book in the near future I will most definitely read it, but I just wasn’t a big fan of this one.
November 20, 2023
"I say science— true, dynamic science like what we do here?—it is poetry. Science is art. Art is science. All these space machines and rocket parts? They're but stanzas in humanity's great love sonnet to the stars."
December 23, 2024
Helen Ruffin Reading Bowl, 2024-2025
Of all the books on the HRRB24-25 list for middle school, this is the one I wanted to read the least. I put it on the bottom of my stack.
The premise: Houston wants to be an astronaut. He also has a brother, Robbie, who has cerebral palsy. Houston promises his brother that one day he will find a way to take him to space. To add to the drama, it is revealed that boys’ dad walked out on them because he couldn’t handle Robbie’s disability. Houston then goes to a junior astronaut program. While there, he discovers that his estranged grandfather was an astronaut . . . and he is speaking at the junior astronaut camp. There’s all kinds of drama revolving family dynamics, social dynamics, and Robbie’s illness.
One of my major turn-offs in middle grades and YA lit is when authors put dialogue into the mouths of kids that real kids would never utter (I think middle grade authors should be a middle school teacher for a year before writing!). This book is chock full of unbelievable dialogue like, “down with the patriarchy!” and “Inclusion! Yes!”
All of this felt melodramatic and unbelievable. I admit I skimmed quite a bit of it.
Of all the books on the HRRB24-25 list for middle school, this is the one I wanted to read the least. I put it on the bottom of my stack.
The premise: Houston wants to be an astronaut. He also has a brother, Robbie, who has cerebral palsy. Houston promises his brother that one day he will find a way to take him to space. To add to the drama, it is revealed that boys’ dad walked out on them because he couldn’t handle Robbie’s disability. Houston then goes to a junior astronaut program. While there, he discovers that his estranged grandfather was an astronaut . . . and he is speaking at the junior astronaut camp. There’s all kinds of drama revolving family dynamics, social dynamics, and Robbie’s illness.
One of my major turn-offs in middle grades and YA lit is when authors put dialogue into the mouths of kids that real kids would never utter (I think middle grade authors should be a middle school teacher for a year before writing!). This book is chock full of unbelievable dialogue like, “down with the patriarchy!” and “Inclusion! Yes!”
All of this felt melodramatic and unbelievable. I admit I skimmed quite a bit of it.
September 3, 2025
This was really good. It was full of interesting drama that wasn't dramatic for the sake of being dramatic. It was super relatable for middle grade kids, touching on insecurities, responsibility, and a little bit of family trauma. It was all really well done. The disability seemed very authentically represented, and I like that the message was that disabilities aren't a disqualification. I really enjoyed this.
February 25, 2024
I loved this book so, so, so, so much. I'll write a full review on Instagram @nutanmreads
June 26, 2024
Easy read. Good for YA to learn about disabilities.
December 4, 2024
Amazing! This is truly one of the best books I have ever read. It made me feel like crying a few times. It is such a sweet book. Totally a recommendation.
January 7, 2024
Thank you so much to NetGalley and Roaring Brook Press for access to an eARC in exchange for my honest review!
Houston Stewart has dreamed of going to space one day for as long as he can remember, to follow in his famous astronaut absentee grandfather's footsteps. And especially after their father left the picture and he and his younger brother Robbie became inseparable, his plans grew to include taking Robbie with him to the moon. The catch? Robbie's cerebral palsy and epilepsy mean that he isn't the typical candidate for any of the world's current astronaut training programs. So when Houston is accepted into a highly competitive Junior Astronaut Recruitment Program, he's left to make the difficult choice to missing out on the first step to achieving his dreams and leaving Robbie behind, if only for a few weeks.
Houston's journey is full of so many important lessons, from some as simple as the importance of honesty and others as big and important as how to ask for help when you need it and how to accept the views of others or how to apologize when you've done something to hurt someone even if you thought you were doing the right thing. Houston's friends from the JARP were an incredible diverse group of brilliant kids with a wide range of abilities--many shout outs to the multiple ladies in STEM we got to see take the stage in this story--and the way that Houston is given the chance to teach his new friends about Robbie and his disabilities while also learning so much more about Robbie's and those of others for himself (getting to see a young girl who comes from a whole family who uses sign language was so exciting).
The inclusion of so many different races, languages, schools of thought, neurodivergence, and mental as well as physical disabilities, and the way that Lindsay Lackey explores the effect that each of these things impacts the outlooks of different people while also looking at the importance of our intentions versus how our actions effect others is so, so important. I can't wait to buy a copy of this for my nephew. It's one of my favorite new middle grade titles.
Houston Stewart has dreamed of going to space one day for as long as he can remember, to follow in his famous astronaut absentee grandfather's footsteps. And especially after their father left the picture and he and his younger brother Robbie became inseparable, his plans grew to include taking Robbie with him to the moon. The catch? Robbie's cerebral palsy and epilepsy mean that he isn't the typical candidate for any of the world's current astronaut training programs. So when Houston is accepted into a highly competitive Junior Astronaut Recruitment Program, he's left to make the difficult choice to missing out on the first step to achieving his dreams and leaving Robbie behind, if only for a few weeks.
Houston's journey is full of so many important lessons, from some as simple as the importance of honesty and others as big and important as how to ask for help when you need it and how to accept the views of others or how to apologize when you've done something to hurt someone even if you thought you were doing the right thing. Houston's friends from the JARP were an incredible diverse group of brilliant kids with a wide range of abilities--many shout outs to the multiple ladies in STEM we got to see take the stage in this story--and the way that Houston is given the chance to teach his new friends about Robbie and his disabilities while also learning so much more about Robbie's and those of others for himself (getting to see a young girl who comes from a whole family who uses sign language was so exciting).
The inclusion of so many different races, languages, schools of thought, neurodivergence, and mental as well as physical disabilities, and the way that Lindsay Lackey explores the effect that each of these things impacts the outlooks of different people while also looking at the importance of our intentions versus how our actions effect others is so, so important. I can't wait to buy a copy of this for my nephew. It's one of my favorite new middle grade titles.
October 27, 2023
Thank you Libro.fm for the ALC!
This was such a lovely middle grade novel :) It’s fun, heartfelt, and has a great cast of characters—plus, outer space of course. I loved the emphasis on accountability and intention vs impact.
This was such a lovely middle grade novel :) It’s fun, heartfelt, and has a great cast of characters—plus, outer space of course. I loved the emphasis on accountability and intention vs impact.
April 23, 2024
This one was almost four stars until the end where it got really preachy. All the social emotional learning and DEI stuff was really evident in the last couple of chapters and the author’s note is a bit insufferable. “The universe is a part of each and every one of us.”The phrase “down with the patriarchy” was used three times and it got tedious and there was a group therapy session that was ok except these kids were using language and phrases children their age wouldn’t.
There was a lot that I appreciated from this book though. I don’t think there are enough books for this age group on disabilities that puts it into such real settings and situations. I loved the sibling closeness of Robbie and Houston. The development of Houston’s crew felt relatable and the characters were also believable. Definitely recommend this one for those looking for an realistic view of kiddos with disabilities.
Found in L4M OT Volume 112
There was a lot that I appreciated from this book though. I don’t think there are enough books for this age group on disabilities that puts it into such real settings and situations. I loved the sibling closeness of Robbie and Houston. The development of Houston’s crew felt relatable and the characters were also believable. Definitely recommend this one for those looking for an realistic view of kiddos with disabilities.
Found in L4M OT Volume 112
June 14, 2023
E ARC provided by Edelweiss Plus
Houston has always been interested in space, and he has the wonderful opportunity of attending the JARP (Junior Astronaut Recruitment Program) in Texas. However, it's hard for him to leave home. His father left the family because he couldn't deal with all of the care that Houston's younger brother Robbie needed, so he knows he is leaving his mother to care for him alone. Robbie has fairly acute cerebral palsy, which causes many issues. He's in a wheel chair, and can communicate via an iPad, but has frequent digestive issues and occasional seizures. Houston has promised to take Robbie to the moon with him, and feels bad even leaving him for a limited time to attend camp. Houston's feelings are also complicated when he finds out that the astronaut he admires the most, Carey E. Broderick, is actually his grandfather, but is estranged from his mother. Camp is exciting, and Houston meets his fellow campers, who include Henry Yuen, Maverick Schemp (who is fairly obnoxious and whose father is a politician), Freya Aaby (who has a sensory processing disorder and has trouble making friends), George Kingston (who is Black and deals with ADHD), and the attractive Tahmina. The kids are put into groups for various simulated exercises, and have to deal with personality clashes as well as areas where they may lack expertise. Broderick speaks to the camp when another astronaut has to cancel, and he is shocked to meet Houston. Their meeting doesn't go well, but they make another attempt to connect after the grandfather contacts the mother and asks permission to speak to Houston. The culminating activity at the camp is a Final Mission Proposal. Houston convinces his group that they should come up with a rover than Robbie could control from Earth, after he thinks that people with disabilities won't be allowed to go into space. When the FMP is delivered, with Houston's mother and Robbie in attendance, Robbie is inconsolable. Will Houston really leave him behind the way both his father and grandfather did?
Strengths: Houston is a well developed character who is dealing with some family problems in a realistic way. The estrangement from the grandfather is handled well, and I especially like that he contacted the mother before getting to know Houston. It was also good to see the family finally process what happened. There is a lot of good emotional fodder for teachers and librarians who like heartprint books, but this does not stint on the details that young readers prefer; interpersonal conflict with snotty fellow students, social life, and classes on really intriguing scientific topics. Lackey has a note that her brother-in-law lives with cerebral palsy, and she promised to write him into a book, so the details of what life with CP entails are very well done. There are not too many books featuring children dealing with a sibling's health concerns, and while Sumner's Roll With It has a depiction of a character with less involve CP, that's the only one I've seen lately.
Weaknesses: While it is a really nice thought to make space accessible to everyone, regardless of their abilities, I'm not sure that will ever happen. I grew up in the 1970s, and thought that even wearing glasses to correct your vision would disqualify you from the space program. Maybe that's not true, but I wondered about George's ADHD and Freya's sensory processing disorder and wondered if those challenges might disqualify even them. I was also a bit surprised that the mother was upset that her father didn't come back from a space mission when circumstances became difficult and this caused the estrangement; I would have thought that the families of astronauts would have had better emergency plans in place.
What I really think: There are certainly students who are interested in becoming astronauts, and this would be a good companion to nonfiction titles like Massimo's Spaceman, Aldrin's To the Moon and Back, or Siegal's To Fly Among the Stars. While there are a lot of science fiction books where children go to space camp and then actually go in to space, this is a great realistic look at what it is like to go to an ACTUAL space camp. Definitely purchasing.
Houston has always been interested in space, and he has the wonderful opportunity of attending the JARP (Junior Astronaut Recruitment Program) in Texas. However, it's hard for him to leave home. His father left the family because he couldn't deal with all of the care that Houston's younger brother Robbie needed, so he knows he is leaving his mother to care for him alone. Robbie has fairly acute cerebral palsy, which causes many issues. He's in a wheel chair, and can communicate via an iPad, but has frequent digestive issues and occasional seizures. Houston has promised to take Robbie to the moon with him, and feels bad even leaving him for a limited time to attend camp. Houston's feelings are also complicated when he finds out that the astronaut he admires the most, Carey E. Broderick, is actually his grandfather, but is estranged from his mother. Camp is exciting, and Houston meets his fellow campers, who include Henry Yuen, Maverick Schemp (who is fairly obnoxious and whose father is a politician), Freya Aaby (who has a sensory processing disorder and has trouble making friends), George Kingston (who is Black and deals with ADHD), and the attractive Tahmina. The kids are put into groups for various simulated exercises, and have to deal with personality clashes as well as areas where they may lack expertise. Broderick speaks to the camp when another astronaut has to cancel, and he is shocked to meet Houston. Their meeting doesn't go well, but they make another attempt to connect after the grandfather contacts the mother and asks permission to speak to Houston. The culminating activity at the camp is a Final Mission Proposal. Houston convinces his group that they should come up with a rover than Robbie could control from Earth, after he thinks that people with disabilities won't be allowed to go into space. When the FMP is delivered, with Houston's mother and Robbie in attendance, Robbie is inconsolable. Will Houston really leave him behind the way both his father and grandfather did?
Strengths: Houston is a well developed character who is dealing with some family problems in a realistic way. The estrangement from the grandfather is handled well, and I especially like that he contacted the mother before getting to know Houston. It was also good to see the family finally process what happened. There is a lot of good emotional fodder for teachers and librarians who like heartprint books, but this does not stint on the details that young readers prefer; interpersonal conflict with snotty fellow students, social life, and classes on really intriguing scientific topics. Lackey has a note that her brother-in-law lives with cerebral palsy, and she promised to write him into a book, so the details of what life with CP entails are very well done. There are not too many books featuring children dealing with a sibling's health concerns, and while Sumner's Roll With It has a depiction of a character with less involve CP, that's the only one I've seen lately.
Weaknesses: While it is a really nice thought to make space accessible to everyone, regardless of their abilities, I'm not sure that will ever happen. I grew up in the 1970s, and thought that even wearing glasses to correct your vision would disqualify you from the space program. Maybe that's not true, but I wondered about George's ADHD and Freya's sensory processing disorder and wondered if those challenges might disqualify even them. I was also a bit surprised that the mother was upset that her father didn't come back from a space mission when circumstances became difficult and this caused the estrangement; I would have thought that the families of astronauts would have had better emergency plans in place.
What I really think: There are certainly students who are interested in becoming astronauts, and this would be a good companion to nonfiction titles like Massimo's Spaceman, Aldrin's To the Moon and Back, or Siegal's To Fly Among the Stars. While there are a lot of science fiction books where children go to space camp and then actually go in to space, this is a great realistic look at what it is like to go to an ACTUAL space camp. Definitely purchasing.
February 22, 2025
This was well-written. Nice blend of space, friendships/teamwork, and family dynamics. Love the brothers' relationship - I haven't read many middle-grade books yet, but this one definitely is so wholesome. The author creates a number of situations that allow the main character, Houston, to grow as an individual and learn, both with his Jr. Astronaut crewmates and with his family. The cast has different personality types, abilities, and cultures (Urdu, Korean, African American, Freya with sensory processing issues/headphones). The plot moves along well with all the challenges and crew interactions in the Jr. Astronaut program, so that added a lot of excitement, information about astronauts, and character development opportunities. I love how the crew eventually becomes so tight-knit and how supportive they are of one another! Also big yay that there's barely any romance in it - Houston likes Tahmina but it doesn't come into play in any big way, and George and Dongjoo get together at the end but it's barely showed.
I was most invested in the family relations - Houston with his brother Robbie (with cerebral palsy), their single mom and a dad who left them because they were all too much, Houston and his grandpa (a famous astronaut, who didn't recognize him when they accidentally met at the Space Center), Houston's mom and grandpa (a tense relationship, because the mom thinks the grandpa abandoned them for a space mission since the grandma was sick and died when the grandpa was in space). The conversations between different family members felt very real, and raw, and at a middle-grade, older child/almost early teen level. The family conversations showed that family ties can be complicated and there can be mistakes made/bad decisions made, but that relationships can be healed with trust, discussions, forgiveness, love, and effort. The conversation with Houston and the mom regarding Robbie being upset because Houston sees Robbie's disability first and doesn't seem to keep his promise to help Robbie go to space together with him was quite impactful - the power of a loved one seeing and loving their loved one for who they are, not beating them down the way the world often tells disabled people "no."
The author's acknowledgements, resources list, Q&A, and note at the end tied the book up nicely. I think it was neat to see the author bringing awareness to how NASA has a long way to go regarding including people with disabilities in space, and her personal touch to the story in knowing an astronaut and in having her main characters being modeled after her husband and his brother with cerebral palsy. The author covers teamwork, curiosity, women and minorities in STEM, humility, seeing your own shortcomings, being willing to own up to your shortcomings, growing from your mistakes, including and helping others, and caring for the planet!
Quotes
"You reminded me that people are more than what we see. We're more than our worst moments or the hurt we cause. More than the sadness we carry. We're more than our shadows. You reminded me to keep looking for the beauty."( pg 483)
I was most invested in the family relations - Houston with his brother Robbie (with cerebral palsy), their single mom and a dad who left them because they were all too much, Houston and his grandpa (a famous astronaut, who didn't recognize him when they accidentally met at the Space Center), Houston's mom and grandpa (a tense relationship, because the mom thinks the grandpa abandoned them for a space mission since the grandma was sick and died when the grandpa was in space). The conversations between different family members felt very real, and raw, and at a middle-grade, older child/almost early teen level. The family conversations showed that family ties can be complicated and there can be mistakes made/bad decisions made, but that relationships can be healed with trust, discussions, forgiveness, love, and effort. The conversation with Houston and the mom regarding Robbie being upset because Houston sees Robbie's disability first and doesn't seem to keep his promise to help Robbie go to space together with him was quite impactful - the power of a loved one seeing and loving their loved one for who they are, not beating them down the way the world often tells disabled people "no."
The author's acknowledgements, resources list, Q&A, and note at the end tied the book up nicely. I think it was neat to see the author bringing awareness to how NASA has a long way to go regarding including people with disabilities in space, and her personal touch to the story in knowing an astronaut and in having her main characters being modeled after her husband and his brother with cerebral palsy. The author covers teamwork, curiosity, women and minorities in STEM, humility, seeing your own shortcomings, being willing to own up to your shortcomings, growing from your mistakes, including and helping others, and caring for the planet!
Quotes
"You reminded me that people are more than what we see. We're more than our worst moments or the hurt we cause. More than the sadness we carry. We're more than our shadows. You reminded me to keep looking for the beauty."( pg 483)
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 18, 2025
What worked:
Character relationships and interactions often create highlights in middle-grade novels. Houston’s guilt for attending camp without his younger brother eats at him. Houston’s pompous roommate, Maverick, annoys everyone he meets and fills the role of bully. Readers later learn his bravado masks untold insecurities. Houston gets butterflies around a pretty crewmate named Tahmina while Freya, a timid girl he meets first, has issues with sensory overload. George adds enthusiasm to the story while Dongjoo produces a popular podcast. The six crewmates must work together for four weeks to pass Challenges and successfully graduate from the JARP.
The plot is an emotional rollercoaster with readers soaring high from successes, plummeting due to conflicts among the team, and sharp twists as unexpected issues arise. Houston’s experience becomes more complicated when he tells the group his grandfather is the famous astronaut, General Carey Broderick. The statement is true but the two characters have never met or spoken to each other. The situation results from a rift between Houston’s grandfather and mom although readers won’t fully understand the details until late in the story. General Broderick makes a surprising appearance at the camp and the truth about his misleading relationship with Houston is revealed. Houston assumes his teammates are angry and no longer trust him which leads to tension and conflict. The crew may be in danger of failing the JARP.
The author includes ample information about astronauts and space travel. Houston has a list of his favorite astronauts and Freya has her top female astronauts printed on a t-shirt. Grandpa tells Houston about Saturn rockets that powered missions into space and shares how his most famous spacewalk was complicated by mishaps. Houston and his crew are constantly reminded their crew comes first as they complete tasks based on space missions. They replicate the near-disaster of Apollo 13 by creating an object from a pile of parts without having any pieces left over. There are opportunities in every chapter for the author to include space trivia.
What didn’t work as well:
There are moments when the narrative becomes informative and some readers may feel it’s too much. However, the author smoothly melds the space facts into the story so it’s not really a problem. It’s natural to share information when first arriving at the facility or while touring areas with historical displays.
The final verdict:
This book is perfect for space lovers, especially those with an interest in astronauts. It’s a sensitive, heart-warming tale of Houston’s love for his brother and how he finds unexpected support from new friends. Overall, this story will appeal to a wide range of readers and I recommend you give it a shot.
Character relationships and interactions often create highlights in middle-grade novels. Houston’s guilt for attending camp without his younger brother eats at him. Houston’s pompous roommate, Maverick, annoys everyone he meets and fills the role of bully. Readers later learn his bravado masks untold insecurities. Houston gets butterflies around a pretty crewmate named Tahmina while Freya, a timid girl he meets first, has issues with sensory overload. George adds enthusiasm to the story while Dongjoo produces a popular podcast. The six crewmates must work together for four weeks to pass Challenges and successfully graduate from the JARP.
The plot is an emotional rollercoaster with readers soaring high from successes, plummeting due to conflicts among the team, and sharp twists as unexpected issues arise. Houston’s experience becomes more complicated when he tells the group his grandfather is the famous astronaut, General Carey Broderick. The statement is true but the two characters have never met or spoken to each other. The situation results from a rift between Houston’s grandfather and mom although readers won’t fully understand the details until late in the story. General Broderick makes a surprising appearance at the camp and the truth about his misleading relationship with Houston is revealed. Houston assumes his teammates are angry and no longer trust him which leads to tension and conflict. The crew may be in danger of failing the JARP.
The author includes ample information about astronauts and space travel. Houston has a list of his favorite astronauts and Freya has her top female astronauts printed on a t-shirt. Grandpa tells Houston about Saturn rockets that powered missions into space and shares how his most famous spacewalk was complicated by mishaps. Houston and his crew are constantly reminded their crew comes first as they complete tasks based on space missions. They replicate the near-disaster of Apollo 13 by creating an object from a pile of parts without having any pieces left over. There are opportunities in every chapter for the author to include space trivia.
What didn’t work as well:
There are moments when the narrative becomes informative and some readers may feel it’s too much. However, the author smoothly melds the space facts into the story so it’s not really a problem. It’s natural to share information when first arriving at the facility or while touring areas with historical displays.
The final verdict:
This book is perfect for space lovers, especially those with an interest in astronauts. It’s a sensitive, heart-warming tale of Houston’s love for his brother and how he finds unexpected support from new friends. Overall, this story will appeal to a wide range of readers and I recommend you give it a shot.
June 8, 2024
"Farther than the Moon" delves into the life of thirteen-year-old Houston Stewart, a young dreamer whose aspirations reach as high as the stars. Eager to pursue his ambition of becoming an astronaut, Houston's journey takes a significant step forward when he's accepted into the Junior Astronaut Recruitment Program. Yet, amidst his excitement, he wishes more than anything to share this adventure with his younger brother, Robbie, who has cerebral palsy.
The narrative thoughtfully explores the dynamic between the two brothers, highlighting the challenges and deep bonds that define their relationship. Houston's internal conflict between pursuing his dreams and his responsibilities toward Robbie adds a poignant layer to the story, enriching the reader's understanding of the complexities faced by families where a member has a disability.
The novel begins slowly, establishing the characters and their circumstances, which some readers might find a bit gradual in pace. However, this careful setup pays off by allowing a deeper connection to Houston and Robbie, making their successes and struggles feel more impactful.
"Farther than the Moon" is commended for its heartfelt portrayal of sibling relationships and the unique challenges they can face. The author's note at the end of the book reveals a personal connection to the theme, explaining that the story was written to reflect the experiences of siblings of those with disabilities. This revelation adds an authentic and touching finish to the novel, underscoring its intention to inspire and support readers who find themselves in similar situations.
The narrative thoughtfully explores the dynamic between the two brothers, highlighting the challenges and deep bonds that define their relationship. Houston's internal conflict between pursuing his dreams and his responsibilities toward Robbie adds a poignant layer to the story, enriching the reader's understanding of the complexities faced by families where a member has a disability.
The novel begins slowly, establishing the characters and their circumstances, which some readers might find a bit gradual in pace. However, this careful setup pays off by allowing a deeper connection to Houston and Robbie, making their successes and struggles feel more impactful.
"Farther than the Moon" is commended for its heartfelt portrayal of sibling relationships and the unique challenges they can face. The author's note at the end of the book reveals a personal connection to the theme, explaining that the story was written to reflect the experiences of siblings of those with disabilities. This revelation adds an authentic and touching finish to the novel, underscoring its intention to inspire and support readers who find themselves in similar situations.
April 2, 2023
Lindsay Lackey (All The Impossible Things) has written another heart-warming novel about family, this one set at a fictional Junior Astronaut Recruiting Program. Houston and his brother have both had their eyes set on a future in space and this summer, the elder Houston has earned a spot in the prestigious JARP program and is leaving his younger brother, wheelchair bound, non-verbal and stricken with Cerebral Palsy behind with their single mom. Houston is placed with a “crew of two additional boys and three girls and despite an extremely rough start, they begin to work as a team. Houston meets an astronaut grandfather he never knew he had and strives to help his mom reconcile with her dad and, with the help of his new friends, develops a plan that may someday allow his brother to join him in space. Wonderful examples of working together, forgiveness, and work ethic are woven throughout a very STEM-forward, aerospace-full storyline that is sure to keep middle graders engaged from the very first chapter until the last page is turned. Highly recommended for grades 4-7; no profanity, violence, or sexual content, although there is a bit of blushing and interest between Houston and Tahmina and by the end of camp, George is holding hands with one of the other girls in the crew! Representation: Houston’s JARP crew is racially diverse with characters who are Black, Indian, and Caucasian; families are from varied economic backgrounds.
Thanks for the digital arc, NetGalley!
Thanks for the digital arc, NetGalley!
December 30, 2024
Farther Than the Moon had me wrapped around its little finger from the start with its wonderfully touching prologue depicting a heartwarming interaction between the main character and his brother, where a promise is made.
This book was so easy to get invested in. I always love touching stories about brothers, and this included so many positive themes that I love, such as the importance of inclusitivity, honesty, the ability to adapt, teamwork with people you don't know, talking out conflict that arises within interpersonal relationships and more.
I loved that the main character really wanted to find a way for his brother with cerebral palsy to go to space. It really touches my heart when people do things for others with such a selfless, loving intention, and this book got me teary-eyed because of it. Plus it encourages self-reflection and self-improvement, focusing not on the scary and negative things that can come with tough moments, but rather on what people as individuals can learn from those times.
If I were an elementary or middle school teacher, I would read this aloud to my class. I walked away not just excited over a good story, but grateful for the themes, the messages, the representation, knowing that the goodness woven throughout these pages isn't just for fiction; it can be and is found in real life, too. It even made me have a new appreciation for space.
Thank you, Lindsay Lackey, for expanding my heart. 8.25/10
This book was so easy to get invested in. I always love touching stories about brothers, and this included so many positive themes that I love, such as the importance of inclusitivity, honesty, the ability to adapt, teamwork with people you don't know, talking out conflict that arises within interpersonal relationships and more.
I loved that the main character really wanted to find a way for his brother with cerebral palsy to go to space. It really touches my heart when people do things for others with such a selfless, loving intention, and this book got me teary-eyed because of it. Plus it encourages self-reflection and self-improvement, focusing not on the scary and negative things that can come with tough moments, but rather on what people as individuals can learn from those times.
If I were an elementary or middle school teacher, I would read this aloud to my class. I walked away not just excited over a good story, but grateful for the themes, the messages, the representation, knowing that the goodness woven throughout these pages isn't just for fiction; it can be and is found in real life, too. It even made me have a new appreciation for space.
Thank you, Lindsay Lackey, for expanding my heart. 8.25/10
January 11, 2026
A nice book that touches one of my favourite subjects in the world: space. Everyone that knows me will tell you I never shut up when it comes to space and you show interest😇
I loved Houston and Robbie’s relationship. It was so tender and cute to see such a good big brother.
The only thing I didn’t understand was why a children’s book, especially one touching a subject so beautiful as joining together like a whole planet, without regarding disability or differences, read sometimes like a propaganda shoot.
There’s a difference between giving a message to children by showing and not telling, like how the crew wanted to learn more about Robbie, or Houston’s unconditional love, and then there’s the whole speeches no 13-year-old would say:
“Down with patriarchy” (this one was the most cringe)
Yes, people of colour have been segregated. I myself am part of a minority group, okay, and I’ve faced many awkward situations, but you don’t fight separation and segregation by separating groups even further. You want to give a message about inclusivity? Do it as beautiful as Robbie’s cerebral palsy was done; don’t come and shove the typical social media phrases that feel more like the typical discourse. Show, don’t tell.
This is the thing that made me give this book 4 stars. Otherwise, I adored this story.
I loved Houston and Robbie’s relationship. It was so tender and cute to see such a good big brother.
The only thing I didn’t understand was why a children’s book, especially one touching a subject so beautiful as joining together like a whole planet, without regarding disability or differences, read sometimes like a propaganda shoot.
There’s a difference between giving a message to children by showing and not telling, like how the crew wanted to learn more about Robbie, or Houston’s unconditional love, and then there’s the whole speeches no 13-year-old would say:
“Down with patriarchy” (this one was the most cringe)
Yes, people of colour have been segregated. I myself am part of a minority group, okay, and I’ve faced many awkward situations, but you don’t fight separation and segregation by separating groups even further. You want to give a message about inclusivity? Do it as beautiful as Robbie’s cerebral palsy was done; don’t come and shove the typical social media phrases that feel more like the typical discourse. Show, don’t tell.
This is the thing that made me give this book 4 stars. Otherwise, I adored this story.
December 5, 2023
Houston only wants to be an astronaut and shares his dream with his younger brother Robbie. Houston promises Robbie that one day they will travel to the moon together, however, Robbie has cerebral palsy and epilepsy and this promise might be hard to fulfill. Just before Houston is admitted to a junior astronaut program, he and Robbie learn that the grandfather they’ve never met is a famous astronaut. Their Grandpa famously flew the MMU (Manned Maneuvering Unit) in space – one of only 6 astronauts to fly the untethered MMU. Houston hatches a plan to meet his Grandpa during the program and is surprised when he shows up as a last-minute fill-in lecturer. Needless to say, their first meeting is awkward. As they get to know each other, his grandfather gives Houston good advice about overcoming petty differences to really build a team which is crucial for space travel. When Houston’s team designs a project to allow Robbie and others with disabilities to experience space virtually, they are surprised when Robbie hates the concept. Robbie does not want to “experience” space travel… he wants to actually travel to space! Readers will love Houston and Robbie’s enthusiasm for space and learn about living – and dreaming – with disabilities.
February 24, 2024
A lovely story about a brotherly bond-- Houston and Robbie are generally inseparable. Growing up with their mother after their father walked out on them. The boys understand that Robbie's disability, cerebral palsy, which is a high-needs form was too much for him to handle. Ironically, Houston and Robbie's mom feels the same way about her father, the astronaut, when her mother died which is why they're estranged.
But when Houston gets involved in a junior aeronautical space program that sends him to a camp for a six-week summer intensive, he knows it's the dream of a lifetime for he and his brother though Robbie won't be able to join him. It builds his confidence and provides deeper connections with a new group of friends who open his eyes even more to understanding the neurotypical differences in others as well as disabilities PLUS it actually brings him face-to-face with his estranged grandfather, the astronaut. While uncomfortable at first, the connections become stronger as they all work through the issues that has engulfed the family for quite some time.
Strong voices and characters make it a good read that brings us back to the moon, stars, and space exploration. Plus the varying ways families operate give perspective for teen readers.
But when Houston gets involved in a junior aeronautical space program that sends him to a camp for a six-week summer intensive, he knows it's the dream of a lifetime for he and his brother though Robbie won't be able to join him. It builds his confidence and provides deeper connections with a new group of friends who open his eyes even more to understanding the neurotypical differences in others as well as disabilities PLUS it actually brings him face-to-face with his estranged grandfather, the astronaut. While uncomfortable at first, the connections become stronger as they all work through the issues that has engulfed the family for quite some time.
Strong voices and characters make it a good read that brings us back to the moon, stars, and space exploration. Plus the varying ways families operate give perspective for teen readers.
Read
December 9, 20247. Clean.
Present-Day Houston, TX.
Houston Stewart (13) made a promise to his younger brother Robbie when his father left them: one day, they'd travel to space together. Since then, their shared love of space and dreams of exploration have kept them together. But it hasn't been easy. Robbie's cerebral palsy & epilepsy makes it impossible for him to care for himself or fully communicate. So when Houston gets accepted into the prestigious Junior Astronaut Recruitment Program, he's conflicted. On the one hand, this is a first step towards making his promise to Robbie a reality. It's essentially space camp with an internship at NASA a possibility for the strongest students. But on the other hand, he has to leave his brother for an entire month. Add in drama with JARP recruits and tension with his estranged astronaut grandfather, and this program won't be easy. Houston, though, always tries to remember his goal: how can he and his brother make it to space.
Like the tension between recruits the most. Relationship with Robbie nuanced and book adds in good twist of having to re-do presentation when Robbie's own wishes overlooked. Not too much space stuff, but enough to keep space kids engaged.
Present-Day Houston, TX.
Houston Stewart (13) made a promise to his younger brother Robbie when his father left them: one day, they'd travel to space together. Since then, their shared love of space and dreams of exploration have kept them together. But it hasn't been easy. Robbie's cerebral palsy & epilepsy makes it impossible for him to care for himself or fully communicate. So when Houston gets accepted into the prestigious Junior Astronaut Recruitment Program, he's conflicted. On the one hand, this is a first step towards making his promise to Robbie a reality. It's essentially space camp with an internship at NASA a possibility for the strongest students. But on the other hand, he has to leave his brother for an entire month. Add in drama with JARP recruits and tension with his estranged astronaut grandfather, and this program won't be easy. Houston, though, always tries to remember his goal: how can he and his brother make it to space.
Like the tension between recruits the most. Relationship with Robbie nuanced and book adds in good twist of having to re-do presentation when Robbie's own wishes overlooked. Not too much space stuff, but enough to keep space kids engaged.
June 1, 2025
I received Farther Than the Moon as part of a space package from MacMillan Children’s Publishing Group @mackidsbooks. I wrote about the package several posts ago but I had not finished reading the book Farther Than the Moon.
I finished reading the ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ star book this week and all I can say is it is WOW! This is really a FANTASTIC book. I don’t know why I haven’t found it earlier. Farther than the Moon was published in 2023 and there is so much I loved about this book.
❤️ There are so many facts about NASA and the history of space travel.
❤️ The book has a character with epilepsy and cerebral palsy and it shows how his family lives and includes him in daily life.
❤️ Houston’s devotion to his single mother, who has raised Houston and his brother Robbie is enduring.
❤️ Houston and his relationship to Robbie, who is nonverbal is touching.
❤️ How Houston incorporates Robbie’s disability into his final project is amazing.
❤️ Houston (the main character)faces many challenges throughout the book. Sometimes he is successful and sometimes he fails, however he never gives up.
❤️ This book has boys and girls working together in science, math and technology to brainstorm solutions and ideas for challenges.
I finished reading the ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ star book this week and all I can say is it is WOW! This is really a FANTASTIC book. I don’t know why I haven’t found it earlier. Farther than the Moon was published in 2023 and there is so much I loved about this book.
❤️ There are so many facts about NASA and the history of space travel.
❤️ The book has a character with epilepsy and cerebral palsy and it shows how his family lives and includes him in daily life.
❤️ Houston’s devotion to his single mother, who has raised Houston and his brother Robbie is enduring.
❤️ Houston and his relationship to Robbie, who is nonverbal is touching.
❤️ How Houston incorporates Robbie’s disability into his final project is amazing.
❤️ Houston (the main character)faces many challenges throughout the book. Sometimes he is successful and sometimes he fails, however he never gives up.
❤️ This book has boys and girls working together in science, math and technology to brainstorm solutions and ideas for challenges.
September 18, 2023
Lindsay Lackey's debut novel, All the Impossible Things is one of my all time favorite middle grade novels. And she didn't disappoint in her second middle grade, Farther Than the Moon. Houston is the sweetest older brother ever. And Robbie is the sweetest younger brother. Together they dream of heading for outer space. But Robbie's cerebral palsy and epilepsy limit his options whereas Houston is accepted into a prestigious Junior Astronaut Recruitment Program.
There are so many exciting challenges at space camp--new friends and frenemies, new science problems to solve, new skills to learn. It's everything Houston dreamed of, but he still wants to honor his shared dreams with his brother.
The heart in this story is off the charts. Lindsay Lackey's skill as an author is so much more than her beautiful writing. It's her characters who are so real they jump off the page and the deeply emotional journeys they go through. I couldn't put the book down. It made me laugh and cry and it brought me real joy. What a gift this book is.
There are so many exciting challenges at space camp--new friends and frenemies, new science problems to solve, new skills to learn. It's everything Houston dreamed of, but he still wants to honor his shared dreams with his brother.
The heart in this story is off the charts. Lindsay Lackey's skill as an author is so much more than her beautiful writing. It's her characters who are so real they jump off the page and the deeply emotional journeys they go through. I couldn't put the book down. It made me laugh and cry and it brought me real joy. What a gift this book is.
October 9, 2023
First sentence: The moon hovered above them, a silver-white orb in the black Colorado sky. Its light illuminated the treetops on the mountainside behind the house and washed the two boys' small faces in a pale glow.
Premise/plot: Houston Stewart loves, loves, loves, loves his brother, Robbie. The two dream of being astronauts. But as things are, Robbie is unlikely to get to see his dream come true. He has cerebral palsy is wheelchair bound and is nonverbal. Like it or not, there are limitations to what he can physically do. That doesn't stop the boys from dreaming and scheming together. The book follows Houston's adventures and misadventures at JARP, Junior Astronaut Recruitment Program, a camp. His brother, of course, always wanted to go too. But now they'll be separated for weeks--and it will be hard for both.
My thoughts: This is a coming-of-age novel that celebrates FAMILY and LIFE. It doesn't shy away from harder topics. But it isn't overly melodramatic. I enjoyed getting to know all the characters and spending time with them.
Premise/plot: Houston Stewart loves, loves, loves, loves his brother, Robbie. The two dream of being astronauts. But as things are, Robbie is unlikely to get to see his dream come true. He has cerebral palsy is wheelchair bound and is nonverbal. Like it or not, there are limitations to what he can physically do. That doesn't stop the boys from dreaming and scheming together. The book follows Houston's adventures and misadventures at JARP, Junior Astronaut Recruitment Program, a camp. His brother, of course, always wanted to go too. But now they'll be separated for weeks--and it will be hard for both.
My thoughts: This is a coming-of-age novel that celebrates FAMILY and LIFE. It doesn't shy away from harder topics. But it isn't overly melodramatic. I enjoyed getting to know all the characters and spending time with them.
October 24, 2023
Farther Than the Moon is a fabulous story of two brothers — Houston and Robbie — and the bond they share.
The story is told from Houston’s point of view. He has spent his entire life loving, caring for and supporting Robbie. Houston is passionate about space and Robbie shares his excitement. In Houston, author Lindsay Lackey captures the complexities involved with having a sick or disabled sibling. The fears, frustrations, sacrifice, feeling bad when something good happens to you, deep love, support — it’s all there. The relationship between the two is grounded and rings true.
Beyond the sibling relationship, Lackey also focuses on friendship and teamwork within the setting of the Junior Astronaut Recruitment Program. Here, it’s great to see teens in their element while still very much themselves. Houston’s team is full of wonderfully flawed characters who are continually working to better themselves academically and personally.
Farther Than the Moon is a great upper-middle-grade novel that has multiple educational tie-ins as well as being just a good book to read.
The story is told from Houston’s point of view. He has spent his entire life loving, caring for and supporting Robbie. Houston is passionate about space and Robbie shares his excitement. In Houston, author Lindsay Lackey captures the complexities involved with having a sick or disabled sibling. The fears, frustrations, sacrifice, feeling bad when something good happens to you, deep love, support — it’s all there. The relationship between the two is grounded and rings true.
Beyond the sibling relationship, Lackey also focuses on friendship and teamwork within the setting of the Junior Astronaut Recruitment Program. Here, it’s great to see teens in their element while still very much themselves. Houston’s team is full of wonderfully flawed characters who are continually working to better themselves academically and personally.
Farther Than the Moon is a great upper-middle-grade novel that has multiple educational tie-ins as well as being just a good book to read.
March 13, 2024
Have you ever wanted to be an astronaut and go into space? Aspiring astronaut Houston is beyond excited to get to go to the Jr Astronaut training camp, but guilty at leaving his disabled brother and single parent mother alone without his help. A lovely book about the inclusion and acceptance of disabled people even in unexpected ways and circumstances. Can someone with severe Cerebral Palsy be an astronaut? Can even their own loved ones limit their capabilities because of their own limited imaginations? Just like the moon shows us only parts of itself, we don't see all the parts of even the people we love. This also has lessons on how to handle adversity (use setbacks as learning opportunities) and adaptability. The author's note at the end talks about how her brother-in-law gave his enthusiastic approval to seeing himself in a book, and how she decided NOT to write it from the disabled person's perspective.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 123 reviews