Meteor, the pint-sized hero of “Mousetronaut,” returns, this time with the NASA astronauts preparing for a trip to Mars aboard the Galaxy Rocket. Naturally, Meteor plans to make the trip, but he is not included in the crew named by NASA for the mission. Disappointed, Meteor climbs the launch tower and stows away under the commander’s seat.

Meteor only comes out when the crew is asleep so they do not discover their stowaway until six months later when they are in orbit around Mars. An unexpected problem looks as if it will keep the astronauts from completing their mission. Can Meteor save the day?

An afterword provides readers with information about Mars, the possibility of a manned Mars flight, and facts about living in space. The realistic story and lifelike illustrations bring this heartwarming story to life, delighting readers young and old as, once again, the power of the small is celebrated.

Highly recommended. ( )