Books We Love: Astrid Astronaut

Hi there! My name is Rie Neal (‘Rie’ is short for ‘Marie’ and is pronounced “Ree”). I am a children’s book author with a background in audiology. I’m from San Francisco Bay, California, and I live with my husband, two daughters, and our cat Dex. In my free time, I like to read, tap dance (a little), roller skate (badly), and travel.

Author of Astrid Astronaut, Rie Neal

Becoming an author is NOT a fast process. I started by writing a middle-grade science fiction novel about seven years ago. I revised and revised and revised the book. Then I sent query letters to literary agents. It took six months until I finally found an agent! The agent sent my book out to publishers, but unfortunately it never sold (that happens sometimes). Instead, I received a write-for-hire book deal for a chapter book series, the Major Eights. The agent saw the success of that and suggested I write a chapter book series of my own.

Because of my background in audiology, I really wanted to write a book about a character with hearing loss. I also love STEAM, space, and science, so I decided to write a series about a girl with hearing loss determined to become an astronaut one day. I wanted to show that space is for everyone, because there is definitely a movement within the space community to make this true. Writing about space also reminded me of my grandfather, who passed away seven years ago and loved NASA.

I am looking forward to finishing Astrid’s series with her taking her longawaited trip to Space Camp. I also hope to write other books that show hearing loss as a normal part of life for so many kids. With Astrid, I didn’t want the main plot to revolve around her hearing loss. She has a wide range of interests, just like anyone else, and her hearing loss is only part of who she is. Kids with hearing loss can do so many amazing things, as Hearing Our Way celebrates.

If you want to become an author one day, there are lots of things you can do right now to get started. Since the age of 12, I always kept a journal. It’s a great way to practice writing. Also, READ. Read anything that sparks your interest, and make the library your best friend. Another tip is to get involved in drama classes—studying acting can be really helpful in writing when thinking about how characters express emotions. Make friends with other people who like to write. It helps to have a support system by your side. Finally, follow your favorite authors on their websites and social media. I like to post about the books I read on my Instagram, @RieNealWriter. I hope you all enjoy reading my chapter book series, Astrid Astronaut !

Eva’s Bookshelf Review

Eva is a 14-year-old girl from New Jersey who has always loved reading. She has hearing loss in her left ear, but with the help of her Roger Focus® receiver and wireless system, she never lets hearing loss hold her back. Ready to discover your next favorite book? Eva invites you to explore her bookshelf.

Eva, our book reviewer

It was really special to receive a copy of the book Astrid Astronaut from the author, Rie Neal, herself. The story features a main character, Astrid, a third grade girl with hearing loss who dreams of being an astronaut. Astrid has had hearing aids since she was very little. They help her to hear quiet noises, and they connect to a microphone that she passes to her teachers, similar to the one I use. Astrid faces some challenges in the story that get in the way of following her hopes and dreams. Even as a teenager, I still enjoyed this book and could relate to Astrid about her life with hearing loss and the challenges she faces both due to hearing loss and also the ones unrelated to her hearing loss. I recommend this book to anyone who likes entertaining books, reading about science and space, books featuring characters with hearing loss, and books that teach valuable lessons.