Long and Short Reviews welcomes Lydia Lukidis who is celebrating the release of DANCING THROUGH SPACE: DR. mAE JEMISON SOARS TO NEW HEIGHTS. Leave a comment for a chance to win a copy of the book.
I love writing nonfiction not only because of my own everlasting curiosity, but also, to help children understand themselves and the fascinating world we live in. That’s why so many of my children’s books are STEAM based. (STEAM stands for science, technology, engineering, the arts, and mathematics.)
There are many benefits to STEAM. Some include fostering critical thinking and problem solving while cultivating imagination and innovation. It’s possible to distill complex scientific theories and relay them to children in easy to grasp and fun ways.
I’m excited to announce my latest nonfiction narrative picture book, Dancing through Space: Dr. Mae Jemison Soars to New Heights illustrated by Sawyer Cloud and published by Albert Whitman. Most people know that Dr. Mae Jemison was the first African American woman to fly to space, but many may not know that she also has a deep passion for dance. This provides the hook for my book: the intersection of dance and science. That’s why I structured the book as a dual narrative that features and dance. As the story unfolds, the two worlds merge together, illuminating how art and science are both essential parts of our world.
What do I hope children will retain from this book?
First off, dream big and persevere to overcome all obstacles. The words “no” or “can’t” are simply not in Dr. Mae Jemison’s vocabulary and she’s a true inspiration.
Secondly, I’d like to gently remind children that they don’t necessarily have to follow one path in life, that it’s possible to pursue multiple passions. That concept mirrors my own life as I studied science early on then switched to the arts, thinking these disciplines were distinct. But as the years went by, I realized these realms are in fact connected.
It’s an honor to write for children and be a small part of their own journey.
To help celebrate the launch of my new book, I’m hosting a giveaway of Dancing Through Space! Simply comment on this blog post. Good luck! (US entries only)
About the Author: 
Lydia Lukidis is the author of 50+ trade and educational books for children. Her titles include DANCING THROUGH SPACE: Dr. Mae Jemison Soars to New Heights (Albert Whitman, 2024), DEEP, DEEP, DOWN: The Secret Underwater Poetry of the Mariana Trench (Capstone, 2023) which was shortlisted for a Silver Birch Express (Forest of Reading) award, THE BROKEN BEES’ NEST (Kane Press, 2019) which was nominated for a Cybils Award, and NO BEARS ALLOWED (Clear Fork Media, 2019). A science enthusiast from a young age, she now incorporates her studies in science and her everlasting curiosity into her books.
Buy the book at Amazon.
Thanks for hosting me!