These two adventurous novels center Black youngsters traveling across space and time to protect their loved ones, save planets, and achieve their dreams.

Johnson, Micah. Aku: Journey to Ibra. 224p. (Aku). Random. Mar. 2026. pap. $9.99. ISBN 9780593811801.
Gr 4-7–Aku, with his big imagination, dreams of adventure. But ever since his grandfather disappeared a year ago, his father has been extra protective. When Aku hears a strange noise coming from the basement, he can’t help but investigate. In a box marked with his name, Aku discovers a high-tech space helmet. With the helmet, he is able to transport himself to the planet Ibra. There, he learns his grandfather was protecting the beautiful planet from other humans who would abuse its resources before he was kidnapped. Aku, with help of his friends Trae and Benji, and some aliens too, will have to rescue his grandfather and save Ibra. This character may have gotten its start as an NFT, but the story it inspired shows no evidence of this and can stand on its own. The plot is compelling and fast paced, with nonstop adventure. Kids will relate to Aku’s many struggles with his family and with a school bully. They will also enjoy following along on his wild interplanetary journey to and from Ibra. Most of characters are diverse; Aku and his friends are Black. While violence is fairly low, characters do experience threats of death and danger. VERDICT An entertaining sci-fi romp with grounded, real-world tween struggles.–Hannah Pohl

Richter, Jennifer Ann. The Star of Moon Village. 272p. Holiday House. Jan. 2026. Tr $17.99. ISBN 9780823456574.
Gr 5-8–A young girl’s inspiring and imaginative space adventure remains grounded in family legacy, friendship, and courage. Priscilla Cobb, nearly 13, has dreamed of following in her late astronaut mother’s footsteps. When she’s chosen as the youngest participant on the first student voyage to Moon Village—a new lunar settlement that blends science and tourism—her excitement collides with fear, loss, and high expectations. Alongside her father and a diverse crew of teens, Priscilla faces technical and emotional challenges as she learns what it truly means to be brave among the stars. Early chapters capture her earthbound nerves and typically emotionally complex teen relationships, while the journey to the moon unfolds with wonder, humor, and tension, appealing to readers who love grounded sci-fi adventures. Richter’s sophomore novel maintains the science focus of Bird Nerd while upping the STEM narrative by deftly balancing futuristic technology—hover scooters, holoscreens, AI companions—with deeply human themes of perseverance, family bonds, and the courage to dream big. Priscilla’s voice is bright and relatable, her friendships authentic, and the pacing brisk. The mix of science, imagination, and heart makes this story accessible and uplifting, encouraging curiosity about space and confidence in one’s own potential. While her race is not overtly named in the text, the cover presents Priscilla with braids and brown skin. VERDICT A heartfelt, fast-paced look at courage, connection, and discovery among the stars, purchase where sci-fi is popular.–Jessica Bushore