Let’s dive into a quick overview of a book featuring AAC:
Book Title: Planet Earth is Blue
Author: Nicole Panteleakos
Published in 2019 (originally)
Age Range: 11 – 12+ years old
Book Type: middle-grade novel (fiction)
How AAC is Featured: AAC is not directly featured, however the main character is autistic and does not speak.
Planet Earth is Blue is about a 12-year old named Nova. Nova is autistic and does not speak. Early in the story we learn that Bridget, Nova’s sister, has disappeared and Nova is in foster care. We learn about Nova as each alternate chapter is written in the first person as a letter from Nova to Bridget. Although Nova does not use AAC, there is a suggestion that she is writing as a form of communication. Nova and Bridget share a love of space. Nova is hoping Bridget will come back for the launch of the space shuttle Challenger. Nova writes about her new foster family and adjusting to her new school.
The author shows insight, skill, and thoughtful attention to weaving details of Nova’s autism with the rich inner world of Nova’s love for her sister and for space. The storyline proceeds over only a period of weeks as Nova counts down the 10 days until the shuttle launch. The author shares events from the actual story of the space shuttle Challenger and a teacher from New Hampshire, Christa McAuliffe, who was the first to be allowed to go into space.
There are many beautiful themes that emerge as the story unfolds. The bond between sisters and the adjustment to a new foster family and school are two of them. But, by far, my favorite part of this story was how the author depicts Nova’s
- thoughts and ideas,
- her questions and worries about her sister and her new family,
- her creativity and passion for all things space.
The metaphor of perseverance and survival, whether for becoming an astronaut and going into space or adjusting to new life experiences, is one we can all relate to.
Have you read this book? What did you think?
Share your comments or questions.