What do you think?
Rate this book
Astro's Adventures Dogs In Space
Come on! How hard could it be to find a replacement for the moon? Just head into space with a “Moon Detector” and it should be easy, surely? Well, maybe not for our heroes. They are after all dogs and prone to, well, shall we say, ‘little’ accidents. For example, knocking the spaceship off course; heading directly into the sun, being attacked by aliens… being scared to death of traveling in space…
And there’s a more.
Down on planet Earth things are going well either. Speed Bump Charlie, our wicked genius, has hatched a plot so extreme and so heinous it cannot be recorded here. If you have read the other books in this series you’ll know that he does not like dogs. They spoil his freedom chasing him up trees, they get far too much attention from their owners and worse, they leave slobber in his food bowl. This time, though, Speed Bump Charlie and his side kick, Furball, think they can rid the world of dogs forever!
Can Astro and the gang really find a replacement for the moon? Can Speed Bump Charlie use his ingenious device to lure every dog in the world to their doom? And can, Alfie really ‘blow’ the spaceship back on course.
Your mission, if you chose to accept it, is to find out!
And there’s a more.
Down on planet Earth things are going well either. Speed Bump Charlie, our wicked genius, has hatched a plot so extreme and so heinous it cannot be recorded here. If you have read the other books in this series you’ll know that he does not like dogs. They spoil his freedom chasing him up trees, they get far too much attention from their owners and worse, they leave slobber in his food bowl. This time, though, Speed Bump Charlie and his side kick, Furball, think they can rid the world of dogs forever!
Can Astro and the gang really find a replacement for the moon? Can Speed Bump Charlie use his ingenious device to lure every dog in the world to their doom? And can, Alfie really ‘blow’ the spaceship back on course.
Your mission, if you chose to accept it, is to find out!
172 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 12, 2015
5 people want to read
About the author
Susan Day
112 books41 followersAlthough born overseas, Susan calls Australia home. She is an arts therapist practitioner, an educator, author and an artist. Being creative and sharing the power of art with others is dream come true. Susan is also passionate about helping people with trauma, has extensive experience in the disability sector, takes an interest in pet care and has trained hundreds of dogs using her own positive, reward-based method. She dabbles in watercolours, loves gardening (as backbreaking as it is), and sometimes just loves to watch a good program on the telly.
Most of all, she loves to write. Whether it is creating art therapy books, creating stories in the Astro's Adventures series or writing non-fiction books about dogs and their care, Susan has made a profession out of the written word. Her collection of books is a reflection of her diverse passions. She's also super-good at time management and feels blessed to have the ability to share her passions.
Most of all, she loves to write. Whether it is creating art therapy books, creating stories in the Astro's Adventures series or writing non-fiction books about dogs and their care, Susan has made a profession out of the written word. Her collection of books is a reflection of her diverse passions. She's also super-good at time management and feels blessed to have the ability to share her passions.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 17 of 17 reviews
August 11, 2019
Lots of fun and entertainment that will inspire your children's imagination and thought process!
There are two missions on-the-go in this well paced, fun and entertaining story:
Thanks to the antics of Speed Bump Charlie (an old alley cat) - the Moon has been destroyed!
NASA turns to a special group of canines, known as The Organisation, for help. Their mission is to find a replacement for the Moon! – NASA has a spaceship waiting for them at Cape Canaveral.
After a brief meeting with NASA, the spaceship is ready. Commander Rocky agrees to lead the mission, along with the help of his special team of canines, Astro, Alfie, Digger, Indy and Stella.
Needless to say, but this adventurous trip to the far reaches of the solar system does not go exactly to plan! What will this space crew encounter? And will they overcome their challenges?
It's very entertaining for the reader. One of my favourite moments is when Astro and Alfie encounters a space walk, with their moon-ropes. They encounter some angry aliens – it's very amusing!
Meanwhile, Speed Bump Charlie has a mission of his own. He devises a wicked plan to rid the world of dogs forever – after finding a chariot of treasure, lying on an ocean seabed! He soon meets a little kitten, who looks remarkably like himself! - Eventually, they join forces. Speed Bump Charlie calls the kitten, Furball. After an adventurous journey together in a truck, Speed Bump Charlie and Furball arrive at 123 Meow Muse, Cat Town. It's here that they devise an ingenious dog-trap, using the treasure and their skills with a hot welding machine!
Speed Bump Charlie is confident that his dog-trap will free the world of all canines.
At first, his plan appears to be working. Hundreds of dogs are leered and mesmerised into his wicked dog-trap!
What eventually happens?
Well, I can tell you that The Organisation are a very highly-technical team! Before arriving back on Earth in their spaceship, they hear shocking news from Dotty and Buster (based in the communications room at their headquarters) about Speed Bump Charlie's plans!
Will they have time to stop Speed Bump Charlie and save the future of the canine world?
The final part of this story brings the canines face-to-face with the felines. It's highly entertaining!
I counted thirty-seven cute and colourful illustrations. This adds another dimension to the characters and the well-written story telling. I recommend this book to science-fiction lovers, and to children who love to use and express their thoughts and imagination. Age range: 8 to 14 years.
I received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review.
There are two missions on-the-go in this well paced, fun and entertaining story:
Thanks to the antics of Speed Bump Charlie (an old alley cat) - the Moon has been destroyed!
NASA turns to a special group of canines, known as The Organisation, for help. Their mission is to find a replacement for the Moon! – NASA has a spaceship waiting for them at Cape Canaveral.
After a brief meeting with NASA, the spaceship is ready. Commander Rocky agrees to lead the mission, along with the help of his special team of canines, Astro, Alfie, Digger, Indy and Stella.
Needless to say, but this adventurous trip to the far reaches of the solar system does not go exactly to plan! What will this space crew encounter? And will they overcome their challenges?
It's very entertaining for the reader. One of my favourite moments is when Astro and Alfie encounters a space walk, with their moon-ropes. They encounter some angry aliens – it's very amusing!
Meanwhile, Speed Bump Charlie has a mission of his own. He devises a wicked plan to rid the world of dogs forever – after finding a chariot of treasure, lying on an ocean seabed! He soon meets a little kitten, who looks remarkably like himself! - Eventually, they join forces. Speed Bump Charlie calls the kitten, Furball. After an adventurous journey together in a truck, Speed Bump Charlie and Furball arrive at 123 Meow Muse, Cat Town. It's here that they devise an ingenious dog-trap, using the treasure and their skills with a hot welding machine!
Speed Bump Charlie is confident that his dog-trap will free the world of all canines.
At first, his plan appears to be working. Hundreds of dogs are leered and mesmerised into his wicked dog-trap!
What eventually happens?
Well, I can tell you that The Organisation are a very highly-technical team! Before arriving back on Earth in their spaceship, they hear shocking news from Dotty and Buster (based in the communications room at their headquarters) about Speed Bump Charlie's plans!
Will they have time to stop Speed Bump Charlie and save the future of the canine world?
The final part of this story brings the canines face-to-face with the felines. It's highly entertaining!
I counted thirty-seven cute and colourful illustrations. This adds another dimension to the characters and the well-written story telling. I recommend this book to science-fiction lovers, and to children who love to use and express their thoughts and imagination. Age range: 8 to 14 years.
I received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review.
February 4, 2015
Check out the complete review at
This is the 8th book in the Series of Astro's adventure. Although I haven't read the previous 7, this is an amazing book in itself. Astro and his gang has to go to space to find a replacement for the Moon. At the same time, on earth, Speed Bump Charlie and his new side kick, Furball are all set to destroy all the dogs of the world. But bringing a replacement for the Moon is not easy. And so is getting rid of all the dogs in the world. Who manages to accomplish their mission and who does not?
Astro and his gang are amazing. I have always loved dogs and this book just falls right in the my list of loved books. The cute illustrations in between and the the way the story goes, the language and the way the characters are built, the typical Cat and Dog animosity and the idea of the story overall is really beautiful and artistically prepared.
The book is for a bit older kids who can read themselves. There is no doubt that it will be adored by every one who reads it
This is the 8th book in the Series of Astro's adventure. Although I haven't read the previous 7, this is an amazing book in itself. Astro and his gang has to go to space to find a replacement for the Moon. At the same time, on earth, Speed Bump Charlie and his new side kick, Furball are all set to destroy all the dogs of the world. But bringing a replacement for the Moon is not easy. And so is getting rid of all the dogs in the world. Who manages to accomplish their mission and who does not?
Astro and his gang are amazing. I have always loved dogs and this book just falls right in the my list of loved books. The cute illustrations in between and the the way the story goes, the language and the way the characters are built, the typical Cat and Dog animosity and the idea of the story overall is really beautiful and artistically prepared.
The book is for a bit older kids who can read themselves. There is no doubt that it will be adored by every one who reads it
April 13, 2015
Three times the fun!
Astro’s Adventures Dogs in Space is a lovely story. Well it’s actually two stories for the price of one that come colliding to a good vs. evil ending. After saving Neptune’s Trident, at sea, the group of unlikely dog characters is sent into space to save the planet earth from losing the moon’s gravitational pull, after the evil cat Speed Bump Charlie has blown up the existing moon. While in space all kinds of antics happen to the space crew that put them in mortal danger and in touch with aliens. Meanwhile, Speed Bump Charlie plans and executes a plan to rid the earth of all pesky dogs. He is pursued by a kitten, who turns out to be his child, and with the kitten’s help he succeeds in building the contraption and begins his reign of terror on unsuspecting dogs. The doggie space crew, however, has a different plan, and meet up with the evil cats upon their return to earth. What will happen? Find out in this fun, easy to read adventure. The book is full of capers and links that will take the reader to fun, online places filled with extra goodies including games and even a maze. With the press of the control button and a click of the link you are transported out of the story to the fun world created by Susan Day. Astro’s Adventures Dogs in Space is a trip worth taking.
Astro’s Adventures Dogs in Space is a lovely story. Well it’s actually two stories for the price of one that come colliding to a good vs. evil ending. After saving Neptune’s Trident, at sea, the group of unlikely dog characters is sent into space to save the planet earth from losing the moon’s gravitational pull, after the evil cat Speed Bump Charlie has blown up the existing moon. While in space all kinds of antics happen to the space crew that put them in mortal danger and in touch with aliens. Meanwhile, Speed Bump Charlie plans and executes a plan to rid the earth of all pesky dogs. He is pursued by a kitten, who turns out to be his child, and with the kitten’s help he succeeds in building the contraption and begins his reign of terror on unsuspecting dogs. The doggie space crew, however, has a different plan, and meet up with the evil cats upon their return to earth. What will happen? Find out in this fun, easy to read adventure. The book is full of capers and links that will take the reader to fun, online places filled with extra goodies including games and even a maze. With the press of the control button and a click of the link you are transported out of the story to the fun world created by Susan Day. Astro’s Adventures Dogs in Space is a trip worth taking.
February 2, 2015
Dogs in Space tells the adventurous tales of Astro and his companions. They are members of an elite canine squad, The Organization, whose mission is protect dogs everywhere.
After their nemesis, Speed Bump Charlie, blows up the moon, Astro and the gang must rocket into space to save the world. Of course, there journey is full of almost disasters and near misses.
The story is well told and edited. It was an easy read but also possesses fun and adventure all children will love. It is also fast paced and will keep it's young readers turning the pages until the end.
Aside from Dogs in Space being an action packed ride, there's more substance to it then one would expect. It's full of humor that even made me laugh out loud. The dogs still have their 'dog side'. They may be journeying through space to save the world, but they still have tummy rubs on their minds.
I also loved how Astro is a brave member of the The Organization, but even he still gets scared sometimes. The author also uses their mission to teach children about the solar system. It is not only done without making the story boring, but actually gives it another layer. I recommend this story for all children.
After their nemesis, Speed Bump Charlie, blows up the moon, Astro and the gang must rocket into space to save the world. Of course, there journey is full of almost disasters and near misses.
The story is well told and edited. It was an easy read but also possesses fun and adventure all children will love. It is also fast paced and will keep it's young readers turning the pages until the end.
Aside from Dogs in Space being an action packed ride, there's more substance to it then one would expect. It's full of humor that even made me laugh out loud. The dogs still have their 'dog side'. They may be journeying through space to save the world, but they still have tummy rubs on their minds.
I also loved how Astro is a brave member of the The Organization, but even he still gets scared sometimes. The author also uses their mission to teach children about the solar system. It is not only done without making the story boring, but actually gives it another layer. I recommend this story for all children.
January 21, 2015
I don't get many children's books to review, so Dogs In Space was rather a treat. It's silly in the way that books for small children are, but it is the magnificent silliness that one finds in the best children's books.
The earnest, bumbling dogs are very dog-like, and the wonderful arch-villain, Speed Bump Charlie, is beautifully wicked. Such a very catlike cat. This faithfulness to the animals' essential natures gives the book a level of realism that I found pleasing, despite the traditional elements of children's book that have paws functioning as hands, things being removed from pockets, and so on.
The book is well paced and the action is kept up and does not flag at all; there's an evenness to it that is very pleasing. It would work well if read to a child in a number of sessions.
I note with approbation that Dogs In Space is the latest volume in a fairly extensive series, and feel sure that future generations of adults will look fondly back on the Astro's Adventures books as a childhood classic.
The earnest, bumbling dogs are very dog-like, and the wonderful arch-villain, Speed Bump Charlie, is beautifully wicked. Such a very catlike cat. This faithfulness to the animals' essential natures gives the book a level of realism that I found pleasing, despite the traditional elements of children's book that have paws functioning as hands, things being removed from pockets, and so on.
The book is well paced and the action is kept up and does not flag at all; there's an evenness to it that is very pleasing. It would work well if read to a child in a number of sessions.
I note with approbation that Dogs In Space is the latest volume in a fairly extensive series, and feel sure that future generations of adults will look fondly back on the Astro's Adventures books as a childhood classic.
March 26, 2015
A delightful tale of dogs and cats fighting for control. Speed Bump Charlie, a very old cat who doesn't even know how old he is, destroys the moon with lightning bolts. He is searching for Trident's treasure. I like the references to Mythology. The cat finds the treasure and crosses the ocean to Australia. There he buries the treasure and meets a kitten who looks like him. The kitten insists that he's his father. Since the kitten is full of useful information about the dog's group, The Organisation, he takes him along and calls him Furball.
Meanwhile, Astro and his group of dogs are told by NASA to go into space to find a new moon to replace the one destroyed. One of their group, Alfie, eats up their food and causes the space ship to go off track. He actually passes gas to propel the ship away from the sun and on course. The antics of the animals is humorous and entertaining.
The cats and dogs scheme to trap each other. I like the machine Speed Bump Charlie built that released tennis balls. The dogs couldn't stop themselves from chasing them. The author has a great imagination.
Meanwhile, Astro and his group of dogs are told by NASA to go into space to find a new moon to replace the one destroyed. One of their group, Alfie, eats up their food and causes the space ship to go off track. He actually passes gas to propel the ship away from the sun and on course. The antics of the animals is humorous and entertaining.
The cats and dogs scheme to trap each other. I like the machine Speed Bump Charlie built that released tennis balls. The dogs couldn't stop themselves from chasing them. The author has a great imagination.
March 26, 2015
An old alley cat, Speed Bump Charlie, steals Neptune's chariot, with all its fabulous treasure, and aims to get rid of his arch-enemy Astro and his doggy friends. He buries the treasure on the shore of Australia, and is helped in his devilish plans by Furball, who claims to be his son. Astro and his friends are given the job (by The Organisation) of replacing the Moon, following its destruction. We follow Astro's hilarious adventures in space, as Speed Bump Charlie and Furball set up a huge dog-trap for Astro and his pals. Will Speed Bump Charlie's devilish plan work? Will Astro and his mates find a replacement for the Moon, and thwart Speed Bump Charlie's plans? Zappy, zesty tale and dialogue, with great drawings, hilarious and exciting for children of all ages.
January 25, 2015
This is a great story, and I wanted so bad to give it five stars. But I can't. Why? Because the cats and dogs in this story are meant to be actual pets, so should have the same physical abilities as your average pet - even if they can talk, and are using technology - but these pets somehow have things cats and dogs don't (like opposable thumbs). They also do things that even humans couldn't do unless they have super strength (like single handedly move a large object the size of a car and larger). However, if you can get past those things, it's a good read, and either way it's very entertaining; I liked it enough that I plan to get the rest of the series at some point, anyway.
January 26, 2015
This book is hilarious. I laughed a lot. The villains are funny and their machinations are diabolical. The space trip is terrific. I liked the cute illustrations and cover. This book is good for dog lovers and sci-fi fans as well. I hope to read more in this series.
February 20, 2015
Very recently, I was given the opportunity to read one of Susan Day's other books in the Astro's Adventures series, Astro is Down in the Dumps, by way of a Smashwords coupon code. I obtained a copy of this with a coupon code also. Regardless of receiving a free copy, this review is just my honest thoughts on the book and I mean no offense to anyone.
An evil cat, Speed Bump Charlie, has taken a trip out to a remote part of the ocean. He dives deep and soon finds the object he seeks. Meanwhile, in another part of the ocean, a group of dogs have just completed an assignment. They are part of The Organisation, a group of dogs which saves dogs from neglect, set them free from animal shelters and protect everyone from general mistreatment. Unfortunately, they've just received words from a superior that something has happened to the moon. It has somehow been destroyed and NASA now relies on this group of dogs to go into space to find a replacement. Have a read to find out what happens!
I don't think the ending seems practical, either; it's left in a position which doesn't actually end the story. Instead, it only opens up a new story, leading into the next book. This might be a bit disappointing for children if they do not have access to the next book. Likewise, they might not understand if they do not have access to the prior book. I don't think it's easy to follow if one has not read the book before it; the author doesn't really explain the prior story to the book very well. Obviously there's some sort of plot involving Neptune's trident and the hunt for it in the ocean but, not having read it, those aspects just seem confusing. Beginning isn't explained very well. In the beginning, he has a stereotypical supervillian rant. However, it seems as if he's still underwater when he does it. Yet, in the next imagery we have for it, he's not wearing some sort of gear to allow him to do that (that we know of so far). Also, I know it's a kids' book, but there really ought to be some sort of reasonable explanation as to how he can swim down deep into the ocean without any proper gear, breath and even talk beneath the surface. It later turns out that he has some sort of amulet that allows him to do it, but it is only explained after he has left the ocean.
Okay, so from what I understand The Organisation is a group of dogs that help other dogs; they help the neglected and rescue them from shelters (from one specifically called Check Out, which I assume is a slight comment that it might put down the animals that can't be helped). So... Why are this group of dogs in charge of helping find a replacement for the moon? The explanation in the book: “NASA wants The Organisation to find a replacement for the Moon. They are saying it’s our fault it was destroyed, well, sort of." What? That makes little sense. Admittedly, they're very special dogs. However, they're still just dogs and have no training in that manner. Realistically, it's a very stupid idea to have these dogs sent into space. The people in real life who go into space go through rigorous training which can often take years. I looked it up on Wikipedia and this is a quote: "At NASA, following the selection phase, the so-called “AsCans” (Astronaut candidates) have to undergo up to two years of training/indoctrination period to become fully qualified astronauts. Initially, all AsCans must go through basic training to learn both technical and soft skills." That's a bare minimum of two years. However, these dogs seem to have little training. Essentially, they're given one briefing on the matter at hand, fitted for space suits and then sent off in a rocket. They have little idea of the proper way to run the ship (even manage to accidentally send themselves off course), let alone to ration the food. Especially considering that they accidentally get themselves lost with little idea on how long their food might last. It just seems even sillier because, rather than worry that necessary food has been eaten already and they might perish because of it, they begin to mock the dog that ate the sausages.
I'll move on to that point separately now. A lot of the conversation, on both good and evil sides, seems to rely a lot on bullying. Speed Bump Charlie not only bullies Furball, but also many other creatures, mocking these characters and even whole species because he doesn't believe they are a smart as he is. The dogs mock Alfie often and, in space seem to have teamed up against him, making fun of because of his overeating and for his farting. Which, I might point out, saved their lives so maybe they ought to be just a little bit grateful.
Keeping in mind that I have little knowledge of the other books in the series (this one is number eight); it just isn't properly explained about why Speed Bump Charlie is so evil. There's a minor explanation that, in The Great War, he was against the dogs that had stopped a truck and he had a mission to help his party. Apart from that, his only other reason in the book seems to be his comment that the dogs spoilt his fun. He seems to be an overly stereotypical character, like the evil characters in movies. As soon as he's found what he's been looking for at the bottom of the ocean, he launches into a long rant about how his plan has worked and then laughs evilly. It's somewhat cliché and not at all original in that respect. It is not properly explained as to the kitten who finds him burying something on the beach. -“You look familiar. Do I know you from somewhere?” Speed Bump Charlie asked. “I think you’re my daddy!” the kitten smiled broadly up at the old cat.- Admittedly, yes it does explain that the kitten thinks that Speed Bump Charlie is her father. However, she gives no reason for why she might think this. From what I gather, it is little more than the fact that they both look similar. The reply only gives one answer, but presents many more questions. Also, I think that this type of thing might be a touchy area for some children. Some of the kids might find Furball relatable because a parent of their own might not be in their lives and might be considering such a meeting of their own. However, in the same respect, it might also be upsetting if the child has been rejected by a parent in such a manner. All in all, I consider the fact that Furball might be a child of Speed Bump's completely irrelevant. It provides little interest to the plot and the kitten could essentially be any stray Speed Bump finds on the street. The story might be improved in such an event, being that there would not be any questions of paternity to annoy the plot. Regardless, I think that the author is trying to make Speed Bump Charlie unnecessarily evil. Because his evil plot is not completely explained, they're using other reasons to try and get us to dislike him, such as using him as some sort of absentee parent and one that rejects his own child (if Furball is indeed as such). I kind of understand Speed Bump's rejection of the kitten, actually; Furball is essentially some kid who turns up out of a random set of bushes and thinks the first person she sees is her father, with no proof other than that they look alike. It doesn't make sense.
Going back to discussing the space mission, I'd like to point out that I know I have been sort of ignoring it in this review. However, I'd like to comment that it also kind of takes a back seat in the book as well. Speed Bump's adventures in the book obviously take precedence in the story. However, I think that the whole space adventure was just absurd. I think it weird that their concern for their own planet outranks the needs of another planet. They know that the destruction of the moon is a bad thing for Earth because of the climate and especially the tidal changes that they will experience with it being gone. However, they dogs seem to think it's okay to go and travel to another planet to steal a new one. Admittedly, there are aliens that actually live on the moon that say it's okay for them to do. However, it just seems that no-one really considers the ill effects this might have on both Jupiter and the aliens. A moon missing from Jupiter might have untold problems that the dogs have not considered, just like how the Earth moon affects tides. Also, the aliens might not be able to survive in such a different area of space. They might not be able to deal with the changes in either gravity or light, let alone the differences in temperature (remember: the moon would be closer to the sun).
The overall story relies on silliness rather than proper plot or character development. The characters are stereotypical. The plot has no proper explanation and makes little sense beyond the fact that dogs are now going to space with no training and little instruction, to steal a moon from another planet with no thought as to how it might affect either Jupiter or the aliens located on that moon. To be honest, it just seems kind of embarrassing to have Alfie save the whole crew by farting. It just seems like he was only there to provide some sort of sick humour; that the crew insist on bullying him he then saves the day by doing something embarrassing for everyone (so much so that "No one mentioned the incident again"). After he had saved all of their lives, they go right back to bullying him again. The bullying and ill feelings of other characters is fairly prominent. Some of the goings on in the book are a bit advanced for some children; the book derives several portions of the plot from real life events, like mention to "The Great War" and Speed Bump Charlie's part to play in it. Though, I think that in some ways it might be more appropriate for younger children; the overall story relies on silliness.
Admittedly, it was an alright book if one completely ignores the ridiculousness of the writing. The thing is that I could probably accept dogs going to space, but not in such a silly manner. I could probably accept a cat trying to take over the world, but the book gives us little reason as to why he does it so it just seems silly. I could probably even accept that Furball might be the child of Speed Bump Charlie, but the story gives no proper explanation to the idea, so it just seems incredibly irrelevant. I'm could probably accept the book much better if many of the motives and actions were explained better the characters were less stereotypical. I think it's worth three stars. I know it's a book for kids, but there still ought to be some practicality in all of it. Again, this is just my honest opinion on it and I mean no offense.
An evil cat, Speed Bump Charlie, has taken a trip out to a remote part of the ocean. He dives deep and soon finds the object he seeks. Meanwhile, in another part of the ocean, a group of dogs have just completed an assignment. They are part of The Organisation, a group of dogs which saves dogs from neglect, set them free from animal shelters and protect everyone from general mistreatment. Unfortunately, they've just received words from a superior that something has happened to the moon. It has somehow been destroyed and NASA now relies on this group of dogs to go into space to find a replacement. Have a read to find out what happens!
I don't think the ending seems practical, either; it's left in a position which doesn't actually end the story. Instead, it only opens up a new story, leading into the next book. This might be a bit disappointing for children if they do not have access to the next book. Likewise, they might not understand if they do not have access to the prior book. I don't think it's easy to follow if one has not read the book before it; the author doesn't really explain the prior story to the book very well. Obviously there's some sort of plot involving Neptune's trident and the hunt for it in the ocean but, not having read it, those aspects just seem confusing. Beginning isn't explained very well. In the beginning, he has a stereotypical supervillian rant. However, it seems as if he's still underwater when he does it. Yet, in the next imagery we have for it, he's not wearing some sort of gear to allow him to do that (that we know of so far). Also, I know it's a kids' book, but there really ought to be some sort of reasonable explanation as to how he can swim down deep into the ocean without any proper gear, breath and even talk beneath the surface. It later turns out that he has some sort of amulet that allows him to do it, but it is only explained after he has left the ocean.
Okay, so from what I understand The Organisation is a group of dogs that help other dogs; they help the neglected and rescue them from shelters (from one specifically called Check Out, which I assume is a slight comment that it might put down the animals that can't be helped). So... Why are this group of dogs in charge of helping find a replacement for the moon? The explanation in the book: “NASA wants The Organisation to find a replacement for the Moon. They are saying it’s our fault it was destroyed, well, sort of." What? That makes little sense. Admittedly, they're very special dogs. However, they're still just dogs and have no training in that manner. Realistically, it's a very stupid idea to have these dogs sent into space. The people in real life who go into space go through rigorous training which can often take years. I looked it up on Wikipedia and this is a quote: "At NASA, following the selection phase, the so-called “AsCans” (Astronaut candidates) have to undergo up to two years of training/indoctrination period to become fully qualified astronauts. Initially, all AsCans must go through basic training to learn both technical and soft skills." That's a bare minimum of two years. However, these dogs seem to have little training. Essentially, they're given one briefing on the matter at hand, fitted for space suits and then sent off in a rocket. They have little idea of the proper way to run the ship (even manage to accidentally send themselves off course), let alone to ration the food. Especially considering that they accidentally get themselves lost with little idea on how long their food might last. It just seems even sillier because, rather than worry that necessary food has been eaten already and they might perish because of it, they begin to mock the dog that ate the sausages.
I'll move on to that point separately now. A lot of the conversation, on both good and evil sides, seems to rely a lot on bullying. Speed Bump Charlie not only bullies Furball, but also many other creatures, mocking these characters and even whole species because he doesn't believe they are a smart as he is. The dogs mock Alfie often and, in space seem to have teamed up against him, making fun of because of his overeating and for his farting. Which, I might point out, saved their lives so maybe they ought to be just a little bit grateful.
Keeping in mind that I have little knowledge of the other books in the series (this one is number eight); it just isn't properly explained about why Speed Bump Charlie is so evil. There's a minor explanation that, in The Great War, he was against the dogs that had stopped a truck and he had a mission to help his party. Apart from that, his only other reason in the book seems to be his comment that the dogs spoilt his fun. He seems to be an overly stereotypical character, like the evil characters in movies. As soon as he's found what he's been looking for at the bottom of the ocean, he launches into a long rant about how his plan has worked and then laughs evilly. It's somewhat cliché and not at all original in that respect. It is not properly explained as to the kitten who finds him burying something on the beach. -“You look familiar. Do I know you from somewhere?” Speed Bump Charlie asked. “I think you’re my daddy!” the kitten smiled broadly up at the old cat.- Admittedly, yes it does explain that the kitten thinks that Speed Bump Charlie is her father. However, she gives no reason for why she might think this. From what I gather, it is little more than the fact that they both look similar. The reply only gives one answer, but presents many more questions. Also, I think that this type of thing might be a touchy area for some children. Some of the kids might find Furball relatable because a parent of their own might not be in their lives and might be considering such a meeting of their own. However, in the same respect, it might also be upsetting if the child has been rejected by a parent in such a manner. All in all, I consider the fact that Furball might be a child of Speed Bump's completely irrelevant. It provides little interest to the plot and the kitten could essentially be any stray Speed Bump finds on the street. The story might be improved in such an event, being that there would not be any questions of paternity to annoy the plot. Regardless, I think that the author is trying to make Speed Bump Charlie unnecessarily evil. Because his evil plot is not completely explained, they're using other reasons to try and get us to dislike him, such as using him as some sort of absentee parent and one that rejects his own child (if Furball is indeed as such). I kind of understand Speed Bump's rejection of the kitten, actually; Furball is essentially some kid who turns up out of a random set of bushes and thinks the first person she sees is her father, with no proof other than that they look alike. It doesn't make sense.
Going back to discussing the space mission, I'd like to point out that I know I have been sort of ignoring it in this review. However, I'd like to comment that it also kind of takes a back seat in the book as well. Speed Bump's adventures in the book obviously take precedence in the story. However, I think that the whole space adventure was just absurd. I think it weird that their concern for their own planet outranks the needs of another planet. They know that the destruction of the moon is a bad thing for Earth because of the climate and especially the tidal changes that they will experience with it being gone. However, they dogs seem to think it's okay to go and travel to another planet to steal a new one. Admittedly, there are aliens that actually live on the moon that say it's okay for them to do. However, it just seems that no-one really considers the ill effects this might have on both Jupiter and the aliens. A moon missing from Jupiter might have untold problems that the dogs have not considered, just like how the Earth moon affects tides. Also, the aliens might not be able to survive in such a different area of space. They might not be able to deal with the changes in either gravity or light, let alone the differences in temperature (remember: the moon would be closer to the sun).
The overall story relies on silliness rather than proper plot or character development. The characters are stereotypical. The plot has no proper explanation and makes little sense beyond the fact that dogs are now going to space with no training and little instruction, to steal a moon from another planet with no thought as to how it might affect either Jupiter or the aliens located on that moon. To be honest, it just seems kind of embarrassing to have Alfie save the whole crew by farting. It just seems like he was only there to provide some sort of sick humour; that the crew insist on bullying him he then saves the day by doing something embarrassing for everyone (so much so that "No one mentioned the incident again"). After he had saved all of their lives, they go right back to bullying him again. The bullying and ill feelings of other characters is fairly prominent. Some of the goings on in the book are a bit advanced for some children; the book derives several portions of the plot from real life events, like mention to "The Great War" and Speed Bump Charlie's part to play in it. Though, I think that in some ways it might be more appropriate for younger children; the overall story relies on silliness.
Admittedly, it was an alright book if one completely ignores the ridiculousness of the writing. The thing is that I could probably accept dogs going to space, but not in such a silly manner. I could probably accept a cat trying to take over the world, but the book gives us little reason as to why he does it so it just seems silly. I could probably even accept that Furball might be the child of Speed Bump Charlie, but the story gives no proper explanation to the idea, so it just seems incredibly irrelevant. I'm could probably accept the book much better if many of the motives and actions were explained better the characters were less stereotypical. I think it's worth three stars. I know it's a book for kids, but there still ought to be some practicality in all of it. Again, this is just my honest opinion on it and I mean no offense.
January 27, 2015
Dogs in Space!
My latest release is free on Smashwords until Feb 21, 2015.
The link is
https://www.smashwords.com/books/view...
Please use this coupon code at checkout: AG57P
The book is available in a variety of formats including mobi (Kindle), iBooks, Sony, Kobo and PDF.
Reviews gratefully received
Blurb:
Come on! How hard can it be to find a replacement for the moon? Just head into space with a Moon Detector and it should be easy, surely? Well, maybe not for our heroes. They are after all dogs and prone to, well, shall we say, ‘little’ accidents. For example, knocking the spaceship off course; heading directly into the sun, being attacked by aliens… being scared to death of traveling in space…
And there’s a more!
Down on planet Earth things are going well either. Speed Bump Charlie, the wicked cat, has hatched a plot so extreme and so heinous it cannot be recorded here. If you have read the other books in this series you’ll know that he does not like dogs. They spoil his freedom by chasing him up trees; they get far too much attention from their owners and worse; they leave slobber in his food bowl. This time Speed Bump Charlie and his side kick, Furball, think they have the best device in the world that will rid the world of dogs forever!
Can Astro and the gang really find a replacement for the moon? Can Speed Bump Charlie use his ingenious device to lure every dog in the world to their doom? And can, Alfie really ‘blow’ the spaceship back on course?
Website: http://www.astrosadventures.net
Thank you!
Merged review:
Come on! How hard can it be to find a replacement for the moon? Just head into space with a Moon Detector and it should be easy, surely? Well, maybe not for our heroes. They are after all dogs and prone to, well, shall we say, ‘little’ accidents. For example, knocking the spaceship off course; heading directly into the sun, being attacked by aliens… being scared to death of traveling in space…
And there’s a more!
Down on planet Earth things are going well either. Speed Bump Charlie, the wicked cat, has hatched a plot so extreme and so heinous it cannot be recorded here. If you have read the other books in this series you’ll know that he does not like dogs. They spoil his freedom by chasing him up trees; they get far too much attention from their owners and worse; they leave slobber in his food bowl. This time Speed Bump Charlie and his side kick, Furball, think they have the best device in the world that will rid the world of dogs forever!
Can Astro and the gang really find a replacement for the moon? Can Speed Bump Charlie use his ingenious device to lure every dog in the world to their doom? And can, Alfie really ‘blow’ the spaceship back on course?
My latest release is free on Smashwords until Feb 21, 2015.
The link is
https://www.smashwords.com/books/view...
Please use this coupon code at checkout: AG57P
The book is available in a variety of formats including mobi (Kindle), iBooks, Sony, Kobo and PDF.
Reviews gratefully received
Blurb:
Come on! How hard can it be to find a replacement for the moon? Just head into space with a Moon Detector and it should be easy, surely? Well, maybe not for our heroes. They are after all dogs and prone to, well, shall we say, ‘little’ accidents. For example, knocking the spaceship off course; heading directly into the sun, being attacked by aliens… being scared to death of traveling in space…
And there’s a more!
Down on planet Earth things are going well either. Speed Bump Charlie, the wicked cat, has hatched a plot so extreme and so heinous it cannot be recorded here. If you have read the other books in this series you’ll know that he does not like dogs. They spoil his freedom by chasing him up trees; they get far too much attention from their owners and worse; they leave slobber in his food bowl. This time Speed Bump Charlie and his side kick, Furball, think they have the best device in the world that will rid the world of dogs forever!
Can Astro and the gang really find a replacement for the moon? Can Speed Bump Charlie use his ingenious device to lure every dog in the world to their doom? And can, Alfie really ‘blow’ the spaceship back on course?
Website: http://www.astrosadventures.net
Thank you!
Merged review:
Come on! How hard can it be to find a replacement for the moon? Just head into space with a Moon Detector and it should be easy, surely? Well, maybe not for our heroes. They are after all dogs and prone to, well, shall we say, ‘little’ accidents. For example, knocking the spaceship off course; heading directly into the sun, being attacked by aliens… being scared to death of traveling in space…
And there’s a more!
Down on planet Earth things are going well either. Speed Bump Charlie, the wicked cat, has hatched a plot so extreme and so heinous it cannot be recorded here. If you have read the other books in this series you’ll know that he does not like dogs. They spoil his freedom by chasing him up trees; they get far too much attention from their owners and worse; they leave slobber in his food bowl. This time Speed Bump Charlie and his side kick, Furball, think they have the best device in the world that will rid the world of dogs forever!
Can Astro and the gang really find a replacement for the moon? Can Speed Bump Charlie use his ingenious device to lure every dog in the world to their doom? And can, Alfie really ‘blow’ the spaceship back on course?
April 4, 2015
'Astro’s Adventures: Dogs in Space' is a delightful children’s adventure characterised by humour and whimsy.
Susan Day’s characters such as the old alley cat, Speed Bump Charlie (SBC) and his small offsider, Furball are endearing and entertaining.
After SBC makes off with Neptune’s chariot he heads for Australia on a wild ride with dreams of destroying dogs and building robots. Meanwhile the hero of the story, Astro and his dog mates from the Organisation are tasked with finding a replacement for the moon by NASA. Astro’s astronaut friends include Alfie, a Doberman who can break down walls with his head; Digger, a terrier who wears a green beret and Stella, a 100-year-old blind cocker spaniel. When these resourceful dogs encounter aliens on one of Jupiter’s moons, Europa, they also negotiate a clever solution to the problem of Earth’s missing moon.
There are no limitations for this wonderful fantasy series. It’s complete with beautiful illustrations, funny dialogue and fart jokes—perfect for children of all ages. As well as being a fun read, ‘Astro’s Adventures’ would make a great television cartoon series.
Susan Day’s characters such as the old alley cat, Speed Bump Charlie (SBC) and his small offsider, Furball are endearing and entertaining.
After SBC makes off with Neptune’s chariot he heads for Australia on a wild ride with dreams of destroying dogs and building robots. Meanwhile the hero of the story, Astro and his dog mates from the Organisation are tasked with finding a replacement for the moon by NASA. Astro’s astronaut friends include Alfie, a Doberman who can break down walls with his head; Digger, a terrier who wears a green beret and Stella, a 100-year-old blind cocker spaniel. When these resourceful dogs encounter aliens on one of Jupiter’s moons, Europa, they also negotiate a clever solution to the problem of Earth’s missing moon.
There are no limitations for this wonderful fantasy series. It’s complete with beautiful illustrations, funny dialogue and fart jokes—perfect for children of all ages. As well as being a fun read, ‘Astro’s Adventures’ would make a great television cartoon series.
February 24, 2015
Like most cats, Speed Bump Charlie hates dogs. But unlike most cats he happens to be an evil genius. A cat so cunning he will resort to all manner of dastardly deeds in order to become the leader of the animal kingdom. He has already blown up the moon and is now hard at work on his next diabolical project...to rid the world of dogs.
The task of finding a new moon falls to Astro, Speed Bump Charlie's nemesis, and his canine pals. As Astro and his pals zoom into space to fulfill their mission they encounter a number of unforseen problems.
Back on Earth, with Astro and his pals thousands of miles away, Speed Bump Charlie and his kitten sidekick build a hideous machine designed to lure dogs to their doom.
Will Astro and his pals succeed in finding a replacement moon and will they return to Earth in time to foil Speed Bump Charlie's plans? You'll have to buy the book to find out.
This is a very imaginative story and one that kids will love. The plot and the characters are well defined and, coupled with the numrous colour illustrations, make for an excellent read.
The task of finding a new moon falls to Astro, Speed Bump Charlie's nemesis, and his canine pals. As Astro and his pals zoom into space to fulfill their mission they encounter a number of unforseen problems.
Back on Earth, with Astro and his pals thousands of miles away, Speed Bump Charlie and his kitten sidekick build a hideous machine designed to lure dogs to their doom.
Will Astro and his pals succeed in finding a replacement moon and will they return to Earth in time to foil Speed Bump Charlie's plans? You'll have to buy the book to find out.
This is a very imaginative story and one that kids will love. The plot and the characters are well defined and, coupled with the numrous colour illustrations, make for an excellent read.
May 27, 2015
DOGS V CATS.
After feline villain Speed Bump Charlie blows up the moon, Astra and his canine pal’s rocket off into space on a mission to find a replacement. Speedbump Charlie has other plans and apart from stealing Neptune’s treasure he wants to rid the world of Dogs so he can have it all for himself. After recruiting his kitten sidekick Furball, who looks like Speed Bump and claims to be his son, they set out on their mission.
Meanwhile following the destruction of the moon, the dog’s journeys are less than smooth, with plenty of action on the way to keep its young reader amused. I loved the characters and the dog trap, tennis balls, brilliant! Hehe, well dogs will be dogs.
Although written for children, this book had me chuckling away with some of the hilarious antics as Dogs V’s Cats. Wonderfully written, with beautiful illustrations to help you on the way.
After feline villain Speed Bump Charlie blows up the moon, Astra and his canine pal’s rocket off into space on a mission to find a replacement. Speedbump Charlie has other plans and apart from stealing Neptune’s treasure he wants to rid the world of Dogs so he can have it all for himself. After recruiting his kitten sidekick Furball, who looks like Speed Bump and claims to be his son, they set out on their mission.
Meanwhile following the destruction of the moon, the dog’s journeys are less than smooth, with plenty of action on the way to keep its young reader amused. I loved the characters and the dog trap, tennis balls, brilliant! Hehe, well dogs will be dogs.
Although written for children, this book had me chuckling away with some of the hilarious antics as Dogs V’s Cats. Wonderfully written, with beautiful illustrations to help you on the way.
March 23, 2015
What a fun read! Susan Day gave me a blast by exploring the antics of dogs and cats through her wonderful series of space adventures. This time it's with Astro and the Organization of Dogs in space. A seemingly simple mission to find the moon gets convoluted when the pups knock the spacecraft off course, eat all their food for the mission almost immediately, and wreak havoc with the best laid plans. In the meantime, a recurring cat character from previous books Speed Bump Charlie and his kitty assistant, Furball, have devised a plan to eliminate their mortal enemies (the dogs) from the planet. If you want the kids to enjoy a great new series or just love reading about animals (as I do) Susan Day's series will fit the bill perfectly. Don't miss it.
May 5, 2015
This is the eighth book in the Astro's Adventures series. In this one, Astro and his fellow canine friends head off to space to find a new moon after a dastardly cat named Speed Bump Charlie destroys earth's moon. Young readers not only follow the bungling dog named Alfie and the rest of the crew as they seek a new moon, but they also learn about the planets. As Astro and his dognauts try to lasso the moon Speed Bump Charlie plotting to rid earth of all dogs. Lots of humor sprinkled throughout the book and interestingly drawn animals, especially the "distinctive" dog named Alfie.
March 26, 2015
I think this is a great children's book. I don't read very many anymore but I glad I got to read this one. I think the cat and dog part of the book is great. I love both animals very much. It was a great adventure book I think any kids would enjoy. * I received this book from the author in exchange for an honest review*
Displaying 1 - 17 of 17 reviews