When I’m An Entrepreneur books
When I’m an Astronaut: Exciting New Picture Book Inspires Kids’ Dreams To Reach For The Stars
Written to break career gender stereotypes, this third book in Samantha Pillay’s Inspirational Careers for Kids picture book series, ‘When I’m an Astronaut’ delights and informs as it offers youngsters a giant leap forward in their understanding of what it takes to be an astronaut
Following on from her hugely successful When I’m A Doctor and When I’m An Entrepreneur books, Dr Samantha Pillay adds a third title in her Inspirational Careers for Kids series with the publication of When I’m an Astronaut.
Written to break gender stereotypes, and to encourage youngsters to dream big and aim high, this immersive picture book is supported by an activity book, bursting with fun activities that delve deeper into what’s involved in being an astronaut, whilst stressing the importance of embracing STEM subjects (science, technology, engineering, maths) in order to fulfil their dreams.
And with NASA’s planned test launch of Artemis 1 scheduled for the end of this month (August 2022),When I’m an Astronaut is the perfect vehicle for learning more about what’s involved in taking those first small steps towards a career with NASA or another space agency or organisation.
A gem of a book, parents and kids everywhere will have one request for Dr Samantha Pillay – please keep adding to this inspiring and transformative series.
Synopsis
What does it take to be an astronaut?
The simple images in this unique picture book allow children to ponder over the wonders of space while building their self-belief.
Career gender stereotypes and self-efficacy start to form in early childhood. This book encourages children to Dream Big and Aim High.
Find the references for the grown-up astronaut hidden within the images on the author’s website: https://bit.ly/
Expand your child’s imagination with the companion Activity Book.
Read the other series titles:
Book One: When I’m a Surgeon
Book Two: When I’m an Entrepreneur
The author says:
“Maths and physics were my favourite subjects at school. I loved solving problems and could spend hours lost in thought. This was not work but pleasure. I would fall asleep and dream about equations and derivations.
“Career gender stereotypes can be embedded by age seven, long before young girls make subject and career choices.
“Reshaping our ideas about femininity, providing STEM role models and challenging stereotypes will help address the gender imbalance in STEM careers.”
Applauded by those involved in the space sector, reviews include:
“The influence of a book like this may be ‘one small step’ in a child’s development, but for some, it will also inspire them to take the next ‘giant leap’.”
Andrew Thomas, NASA Astronaut (retired).
“This one-of-a-kind book brilliantly displays accurate space travel that will spark imaginations, inspire dreams, and delight space lovers, young and old. Look closely at the illustrations for hidden insider details that encourage readers to ask questions and discover even more!”
Andrea Boyd, International Space Station Flight Controller and Deputy of Astronaut Operations for European Space Agency
Garnering five-star reviews from Amazon US readers, these include:
“This beautiful picture book may be directed toward STEM education, but it will reach many others, too. It shows how work and inspiration can take a person toward their dream profession.” – Sunny Sue
“What a great find! Dr. Samantha has done a great job creating a beautifully illustrated book to inspire children, especially young girls, to reach for the stars. When I’m an Astronaut: Dreaming is Believing, has vivid, detailed illustrations that make ME want to go back to school! She even throws in a little whimsy for the kids who love animals, and so clearly shows that realizing your dreams takes hard work and study. I can see her passion in the pages, and was quite amazed when I read her personal story (About the Author), to see how she also, has followed her dream.” – yellow
“This story is simple but very beautiful and inspiring. The illustrations are also out of this world (pun intended). I got the kindle version but plan on getting the hardcover version for my daughters.” – Teneil
Independently published, When I’m an Astronaut is available in paperback (£10.99/$17.99) and Kindle format (£2.99/$3.99 or free via Kindle Unlimited) on Amazon at https://amzn.to/3Sx0mhf and on Amazon US at https://amzn.to/3Pfs3Id
About the author:
Samantha Pillay, a urological surgeon, is no stranger to overcoming adversity to achieve her goals. She was born with hip dysplasia and underwent several operations, spending about 18 months in hospital from age two to four years. She then started school in a wheelchair, taking years to learn to walk. She completed school age 16 and became the first female to complete urological surgical training in South Australia. In 2021 she published When I’m a Surgeon – Book One in the Inspirational Careers for Kids picture book series. Samantha aims to break career gender stereotypes and instil a belief in children that they can fulfil their dreams.