A Universe Big & Small

Geisel Award–winning creator James Yang explores the mysteries of the universe, inspired by the work of lauded astronomer Carl Sagan.

When Carl stared out the window, he had many questions.

Astronomer and scientist Carl Sagan loved asking questions—he wanted to learn about everything from the smallest atoms to the vastness of the galaxy. And by using his imagination and allowing himself to dream up questions big and small, he inspired others to keep exploring the mysteries of the universe and our place in it.

Geisel Award-winning author and illustrator James Yang invites readers on a fantastic journey through the cosmos, inspired by the life and work of Carl Sagan."Young Carl stands in for every child who's ever asked big questions and considered how to answer them. The first step, as Yang makes beautifully clear, is always imagination. A lovely interpretation of curiosity and wonder." —Kirkus Reviews

"In an accessible work loosely inspired by Sagan, economical text pairs with blocky artwork to hint that exploring the universe begins and ends with questions." —Publishers Weekly

"A whimsical tale that shares the pleasure of curiosity." —The Horn Book

"A thoughtful addition where science-themed read-alouds or inspirational STEM titles are in demand . . . may inspire budding astronomers to begin their own journeys of discovery."—School Library JournalJames Yang is the author and illustrator of several acclaimed picture books, including A Boy Named Isamu, which won the Asian/Pacific American Award for Literature Honor, and Stop! Bot!, which won the Theodor Seuss Geisel Award. His work has appeared in publications like Graphis, Newsweek, Forbes, Fortune, The New York Times, and The Wall Street Journal. You might have seen some of his art in many of New York City’s subway cars! He lives in Brooklyn.

You can visit him at JamesYang.com or follow him on Instagram @YangBlog.