I Need Space - by Molly Harris (Hardcover)

Book Synopsis

A rocket ship demonstrates how taking some time by yourself can you help cope with stressful or overwhelming situations in this sweet and brightly illustrated picture book about regulating emotions, perfect for fans of I Am a Tornado and Nobody Hugs a Cactus.

For a rocket ship like Rocco, space is one big playground, but like most playgrounds, not everyone plays by the rules. Rocco tries to be patient with the toy-stealers and line-cutters...until he's knocked off course by some roughhousing meteors. Suddenly he can't take it anymore!

Luckily, before he blows a fuse, Rocco remembers that sometimes the best way to cool his jets is to get some space. All it takes to refill his tank is a few peaceful minutes by himself--after all, space has plenty of room for everyone to have fun!

Review Quotes

"Corby's energetic illustrations depict Rocco's colorful journey through space, while the inviting text makes this an effective read-aloud. The story offers a gentle, relatable introduction to managing big emotions and recognizing when it is time to step away and re-center."--Booklist

"Harris' clever tale provides children with a practical strategy for dealing with big feelings: finding somewhere calm and quiet to "cool [their] jets and refill [their] tank." Children will easily draw connections between Rocco's experiences and their own. Corby's illustrations keep things light and accessible."--Kirkus

About the Author

Molly Harris is the author of picture books The Big Squeeze, Whirby, and I Need Space. She is a technical writer by trade who enjoys world traveling and working on too many projects at once. Originally from Massachusetts, she now lives in Ireland with her husband and two sons. Visit her at MollyHarrisBooks.com.

Jon Corby is an illustrator and children's book designer. He earned his BFA in illustration from Syracuse University and is currently based in Pennsylvania. I Need Space is his debut picture book. Learn more about his work at JonCorbyArt.com.