To the Stars!, by Carmella Van Vleet and Dr. Kathy Sullivan, illustrated by Nicole Wong

It seems like another age, and, truly it was.  When Kathy Sullivan was a little girl, people expected her to aim at being a mother, a nurse, or a teacher.  Kathy had other ideas.  She wanted to see the world, to fly, to do something exciting.  Thankfully, she had boldness and support of people around her to pursue her dreams.

To the Stars! The First American Woman to Walk in Space introduces kids to Kathy.  Her dreams were always bigger than the world around her.  She decided she wouldn't let gender roles determine her career and life choices.  Against the odds, she ended up flying in three space shuttle missions, including one in which she became the first woman to walk in space!

To the Stars has lovely illustrations by Nicole Wong which capture Dr. Sullivan's love of life, even from an early age.  Girls and boys alike can draw inspiration from Dr. Sullivan's determination and, most of all, the enthusiasm with which she pursued her dreams.  Mothers, nurses, and teachers are vital roles, and I hope little girls everywhere will continue to pursue these occupations and be the best they can be.  But I am glad that women like Dr. Sullivan have paved the way to broaden opportunities for women, giving girls more to aim for.

Kathy always wanted to see the world . . .

And one day, she really did. . . .

Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for the complimentary electronic review copy!

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