The Spacesuit: How a Seamstress Helped Put Man on the Moon

The individuals who helped put a man on the moon were not just rocket scientists—and certainly not just men. Inspired by a real-life historical figure, Donald introduces Eleanor “Ellie” Foraker, who, early in her life, discovers a love of sewing and clothing design. As an adult, Foraker is employed at a clothing company; when her employer enters a competition to sew spacesuits for Apollo astronauts, Foraker leads the team. Landy’s quiet, cartoony artwork depicts the subject and her fellow seamstresses as they brainstorm suit designs, troubleshoot, and put in tireless hours sewing (“within 1/64 of an inch,” notes one of the many stated facts). When astronauts test the suits alongside other designs, theirs is deemed “comfortable. Heat resistant. Light enough to walk on the moon,” and wins. Readers won’t gain a strong sense of Foraker as a distinctive character, and the book feels aimed at those younger than the stated age range, but Donald provides a window into a little-told piece of history that is sure to intrigue. Ages 4–9. [em](June) [/em]