The Spaceman

Our story begins with a tiny, orange-skinned spaceman who lands on what he initially perceives as an ordinary planet. His job, as he solemnly informs us, is to collect soil samples, label them, and move on to the next destination—a monotonous routine he carries out with diligent precision. However, this particular planet is unlike any he has encountered before. As the spaceman becomes captivated by its mysterious beauty, his focus shifts from the mundanity of his tasks to the extraordinary world around him.

Telling the story from the spaceman’s first-person perspective is a masterstroke by Cecil. The spaceman’s voice, formal yet endearing, evokes a sense of nostalgia and humour that will delight both older readers and young listeners alike. This tone, combined with the spaceman’s wide-eyed observations, is charmingly reminiscent of a Bill Bryson-esque narrative, adding a layer of innocence and wonder.

Cecil’s use of oil paints gives the illustrations a rich, textured feel, with each brushstroke adding depth and warmth to the pages. The colour palette is both vibrant and subtle, with the orange hue of the spaceman’s skin and white suit standing out against the soft greens and blues of the planet’s landscape—impressive for such a tiny creature. What initially seems like an ordinary planet is soon revealed to be teeming with life—flowers, butterflies, and a friendly yet “hideous” beast that turns out to be a dog. The juxtaposition of the spaceman’s small stature against the planet’s large flora and fauna emphasises his vulnerability and the vast beauty of the world he has stumbled upon—a subtle invitation for readers to contemplate the significance of their surroundings.

Ultimately, this is a story about finding joy in the unexpected and learning to appreciate the world around us. The spaceman’s journey from duty-bound explorer to joyful participant is touching and uplifting. When he finally finds his spaceship lodged in a tree, he faces a choice: return to his old life of routine and monotony, or stay on this extraordinary planet where he has found happiness and friendship. The decision is made with a delicate touch of humour and grace that resonates deeply.

Cecil’s storytelling is as thoughtful as it is whimsical, inviting readers to pause, look around, and perhaps see the world in a new light. This beautifully crafted picture book captures the essence of discovery, wonder, and the unexpected beauty found in the most ordinary of places—a gentle reminder to stop, breathe, and appreciate life’s simple pleasures, preferably, with a dog.