City of Light

Educational Publishing Awards shortlist

About the book

On Monday 20 February 1962, the people of Perth lit up their city overnight to acknowledge the special mission of American astronaut John Glenn – the first American to orbit the Earth. Glenn, in turn, observed that the city was clearly visible from space, and Perth became known worldwide as ‘The City of Light’.

This is a story of two small children with one big idea: an idea that captured the imagination of a city. It is also a story about connection – the connection of a community that came together to achieve a goal, and their connection with John Glenn who was travelling far from home.

Quote from the Book

Our city is big.
The universe is bigger.
An astronaut from the other side of the world will fly over
our home, at night. We will see a tiny light and we’ll know
it’s him. But will he be able to see us?
One girl, one boy?
A true story.

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Reviews

City Of Light is an absolute delight. This book embodies lots of the best things in life – imagination, connection, working together, and believing in something that’s bigger than all of us. A wonderful yarn with the perfect visual accompaniment.

K- Kids Book Review

It’s a heartening story of community collaboration during a time of fascination with early advances in outer space travel.

Although author Julia Lawrinson is best known for her outstanding YA and middle grade novels, she adapts her masterful writing skills to this picture book with short, punchy phrases that capture the excitement of the first astronaut Earth orbit, while succinctly telling the children’s story.

This is a beautiful book for parents and grandparents to share their nostalgia for the 1960s and their interest in early outer space flight, with a new generation of space travel enthusiasts.

B- Barbara Swartz, Reading Time

Highly recommended.

On 20th February 1962, the first American astronaut to travel around the earth passed over Perth, Western Australia. This stunning picture book celebrates that event, sixty years ago.

F- Fran Knight, ReadPlus

It was an inspiring session about the people of Perth who lit up their city overnight to acknowledge the special mission of American astronaut John Glenn. Suitable for the age group 7-10 years old, especially with the parachute activity at the end. Recommended for schools, Children’s Book Week and meet the author sessions.

L- Librarian

Other Books

Julia Lawrinson, award winning author of more than fifteen books