Once Upon a Space-Time

Once Upon a Space-Time follows two friends, Jide and Petra, during their first year at the Astro Academy, a school that trains students to become space cadets. Their training coincides with humanity's first contact with alien life, setting up major changes for Earth and its space program. The story takes place in 2182, when space travel has become routine and a new generation prepares to explore the galaxy. Through a mix of classroom scenes, training exercises, and unexpected encounters, Jide and Petra learn what it takes to become space explorers. The graphic novel format brings the futuristic setting to life with details of space technology, alien species, and daily life in a space-focused world. Brown's illustrations combine humor with action as the students face challenges both typical and extraordinary. This middle-grade sci-fi adventure explores themes of friendship, determination, and adapting to change while imagining humanity's future role in an expanding universe.

Readers appreciate the humor and accessibility of this graphic novel for middle-grade students. Parents note it engages reluctant readers through its combination of space adventures and silly jokes. Multiple reviews mention the appeal of the detailed illustrations and likeable characters. Common criticisms include a plot that some found scattered or hard to follow. Several reviewers wanted more character development and deeper world-building. A few mentioned the humor occasionally feels forced. Ratings across platforms: Goodreads: 3.8/5 (300+ ratings) Amazon: 4.6/5 (100+ ratings) Barnes & Noble: 4/5 (25+ ratings) Sample reader comments: "My 9-year-old couldn't put it down" - Goodreads reviewer "Fun art style but story jumps around too much" - Amazon reviewer "Perfect for fans of Dog Man looking for something more science-focused" - School librarian review "Wish there was more explanation of the space academy setting" - Goodreads reviewer

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🚀 Author Jeffrey Brown first gained widespread recognition for his Star Wars-themed children's books, including "Darth Vader and Son" 🎨 The book combines science fiction with middle-grade humor, featuring detailed illustrations that took Brown over a year to complete 🌟 While writing this book, Brown consulted with real scientists to ensure the space-related concepts were accurately portrayed 📚 The story was partially inspired by Brown's own childhood interest in becoming an astronaut and his continued fascination with space exploration 🎓 Before becoming a full-time author and illustrator, Jeffrey Brown taught art at art schools in Chicago and worked in a grocery store while developing his craft