by Nick Abadzis. New York, NY: First Second, 2007
Historical fiction about the US/Russian space race and Laika, the first sentient being (a dog) sent up to space and the struggles her trainer had with the mission. While this is about Laika and the space race, it gives an eye-opening view of what Cold War Russia was like.
It addresses social studies themes such as: historical events; culture and cultural diversity; continuity and change among and between cultures; national and community institutions; the powers and challenges of governance; citizenship and civic ideals and practices; and global connections.
Awards include: Publishers Weekly Best books of the Year, YALSA Great Graphic Novels for Teens, Eisner Award Winner, and Kirkus Reviews Best Books of the Year.
Grades 4+