LITTLE MOMENTS IN A BIG UNIVERSE

Fantastically illustrated science fiction with a message of acceptance and mutual aid.

In this stunning, Avatar-like adventure, told in simple language by multiple narrators, a robot and a space explorer describe their travels as the universe, a galaxy, and a solar system announce their presence and define themselves. When the spaceship speaks, it tells of a sudden systems failure and the consequent crash on an unknown green planet, where a forest blanketing the surface plans to grow over the wreck. The universe senses the emotions of the explorer, “stranded and afraid.” The planet’s inhabitants, “strange, glowing creatures,” meet the invaders and offer help. After repairs, both invaders and inhabitants share stories, making “even the distant stars seem closer.” Then they party together! After thanking their hosts, the explorer and robot depart. Only now do they share their names with us: Oio the robot, and Yamis the explorer. In a final word, the universe notes that “everything that happens becomes a part of me.” The brilliant neon illustrations match this dreamlike tale: Oio looks like an elongated spark plug, while Yamis is an upright, doublet-clad frog-duck creature. The natives resemble brain cells and a spinal cord, or frog-spawn in jelly.

For imaginative, space-obsessed readers.