Review of The Space Lottery

[Carol McCoy Phelps]

[Following is an official OnlineBookClub.org review of "The Space Lottery" by Stefanos di Moor.]

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5 out of 5 stars

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The Space Lottery is an inspiring book by Stefanos di Moor. The author shows young readers that good things really do come in small packages, including boyhood dreams. The author crafts a compelling tale in which themes of immigration and pursuit of excellence intersect with racial prejudice.

The story introduces Valentin’s Haitian family before the political and social downfall made it impossible for them to remain in their homeland. Our six-year-old protagonist flees to America with his mother and aunt after a cruel dictator overthrows the government. The small family moves into a small apartment in Brooklyn, New York. They do not know any English, but Valentin learns it easily in school and begins teaching his mother and his aunt. Through the years, Valentin channels his energy into academic excellence. He eventually wins a coveted spot in a youth astronaut training program.

Unfortunately, Valentin’s success triggers unexpected backlash from racially prejudiced parents who resent seeing an immigrant child of color academically outdo their children. The author skillfully reforms the narrative about social blights of injustice and discrimination into a powerful commentary on merit and the American Dream.

I like the author’s conversational tone that makes his story suitable for middle-school readers. The book is brief, which may add to its appeal for young readers. It is important to remember that the book gives readers straightforward views of racism, diversity, inclusion, and overcoming prejudice without using profanity.

I felt that the last chapter of the book is rushed, and it could benefit from the addition of further details about Stefanos di Moor’s adult life. The hurried synopsis leaves me wanting to know more about how his childhood helped him reach his goals.

Otherwise, this novel is exceptionally well-written, and it is very well edited. I recommend it to young readers who are age 14 and up. Parents may also enjoy reading this book and discussing it with their children. I am happy to give this book 5 out of 5 stars.

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The Space Lottery
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[Yin Jiang]

This sounds like a very interesting book. Being a person of colour myself, I am particularly sensitive to issues of racism. It would be interesting to pick up this book and see what it says. Thank you for your review!

[Mary John 10]

The Space Lottery by Stefanos di Moor sounds like an inspiring and powerful story of resilience and ambition. Following young Valentin's journey from Haiti to America, the book explores themes of immigration, racial prejudice, and the pursuit of dreams. It's heartwarming to see his dedication to learning and achieving excellence, ultimately earning him a spot in a youth astronaut program. This story would be an encouraging read for young readers with big dreams!

[Blueberry Dragon]

Thanks for the review, @Carol McCoy Phelps . Congratulations to Stefanos di Moor on getting a 5-star rating from you - the book indeed explores an interesting and relevant premise of the American dream!

[Catarina Luciane Silva]

Combining space and racial questions sounds like an interesting idea. I am ashamed of confessing that I always image the characters as being white, for no specific reason, when I am reading a novel about going to space or even space battles. It had never occurred me that we should open our minds about this issue.

[Benita Ogarekpe]

Sounds Fascinating. This book is definitely something right up my alley. Great review by the way.