Whether he’s sliding down Saturn’s rings, swinging off a space station, or flying around Jupiter like he’s on a merry-go-round, Rocco the rocket loves playing in outer space. It’s usually a blast. But sometimes Rocco gets crowded out of his favorite spots, or meteors fly in and bump him around. When it all gets to be too much, Rocco needs quiet space to regroup. He finds it at the edge of the solar system.

I Need Space by Molly Harris and Jon Corby is a cute picture book that helps kids learn about objects in space while also figuring out how to deal with overwhelming emotions. Rocco learns that after finding quiet time alone to recharge he’s ready to go back in and play.

One of the last pages of the book talks about things found in space, like black holes, the International Space Station, Jupiter’s Great Red Spot, and more. There also a page dedicated to ideas for techniques to try when feelings overwhelm.

The illustrations are fun and whimsical. And some of the wording is a play on common sayings, like “renter the atmosphere,” and “bring you back down to earth.” It all leads to an upbeat picture book that is sure to become a favorite read aloud.

The publisher provided me with a copy of this book for review.