Stellarphant

Stellarphant delivers a powerful tale of perseverance, courage, and equality, all wrapped in a fun, out-of-this-world adventure. Meet Stella, an elephant with a dream to become an astronaut. Each time she applies to Space Command, she's rejected for a different reason-but that doesn't stop her. With unwavering determination, Stella proves that space is for everyone. Through compelling illustrations and a strong narrative, this story encourages children to challenge stereotypes and believe in their dreams, no matter the odds.

Stellarphant is a worthy and timely story about having the courage to follow your dreams and believing in yourself.

Stella wants to be an astronaut. There is only one problem- Stella is an elephant. Every time she applies to Space Command, they come with a new reason she can't join. But where there's a will, there's a way and Stella is determined to reach for the stars.

Shortlisted for the Speech Pathology Australia Book of the Year Award 2022 and The CBCA 2022 Picture Book of the Year Award

About the author: James Foley

James Foley makes picture books, middle-grade novels and comics for kids. James is the author/illustrator of the S.Tinker Inc. graphic novel series and the illustrator for the Toffle Tower series by Tim Harris. He contributed to Total Quack Up! and Funny Bones, with proceeds going to charity. James's earlier books, My Dead Bunny, In the Lion, The Last Viking and The Last Viking Returns have all scored honours, including children's choice awards, shortlistings in the Children's Book Council of Australia Book of the Year Awards, and selection to the International Youth Library's White Ravens list. James is an ambassador for Books In Homes and Room To Read Australia.

Educational Benefits:

• Promotes resilience and growth mindset through character-driven challenges.
• Stimulates dialogue on diversity, inclusion, and breaking barriers.
• Supports literacy development with rich language and visual literacy cues.
• Fosters aspirations in STEM and space-related topics.

Classroom Ideas:

• Use to introduce a unit on space exploration or career aspirations.
• Facilitate a class discussion about overcoming obstacles.
• Inspire students to write their own œreach for the stars story.
• Create a character study of Stella and her journey.

Information:

• Ages: 5 years and up
• Author: James Foley
• Format: Picture book