Planet Earth Is Blue

Autistic astronomy lover Nova Vezina is 12 years old in January 1986, and although she rarely speaks, she understands much more than people give her credit for. Her older sister, Bridget, is the only person who really sees her, but when Bridget runs away, Nova is placed in yet another foster home, this time alone. To cope, she counts down the 10 days to the Challenger shuttle launch, which Bridget promised to watch with her. In the meantime, her new foster family works hard not only to understand and support Nova, but also to encourage her teachers and social worker to see her in a new light. Readers familiar with the Challenger’s fate will recognize the approaching tragedy, but the love of Nova’s new family envelops her when its harsh reality hits. Debut author Panteleakos develops a believable, authentic point of view through Nova’s letters to her sister (called “scribbles” by her teacher), which distill her own memories, sensitivities (“pencils scratch papers, which bothers my ears”), and interests alongside 1980s attitudes about autism. A sensitively told story that may help young readers stretch their compassion and empathy. Ages 8–12. [em](May) [/em]