Dogs in Space

In 1951, a Soviet Space Center scientist named Oleg prowls the alleys of Moscow, using raw meat to lure stray dogs. He finds two, “clever and calm, brave and obedient,” that have the right stuff for a special mission. Readers learn the amazing story of how two street dogs—brown-spotted Strelka and fluffy white Belka—become unlikely space pioneers. The two pooches survive training and a nail-biter of a launch to orbit the Earth before arriving back on the ground as tail-wagging global celebrities. Deppe’s charmingly gonzo illustrations of smiling, bug-eyed dogs cleverly incorporate references to ’80s-era sci-fi graphics and Russian Constructivist design, while Southgate’s larky imagined telling of a key scientific milestone balances an engaging plot, useful details, and an inspiring message: “If two little dogs from the streets of Moscow can make history, then perhaps you can too!” Back matter includes timelines of animal launches and the Space Race. Ages 5–7. [em](Mar.) [/em]