Twice last year I had the honor of appearing with author/astronaut Leland Melvin (at Scrawl Books and the Gaithersburg Book Festival) when his fun graphic novel Space Chasers came out. Luckily the adventures didn’t end there, because book 2 just blasted off! We’ll be talking about it at the Gaithersburg Book Fest again this Saturday, May 16 at 11:15. In the meantime, here’s what Leland said about his new title:
Me: Congratulations on the release of SPACE CHASERS: TO THE MOON (First Second, Feb. 2026), the touching and exciting second volume of your graphic novel series! It’s great to see the Steam Team back for another adventure. What inspired you to create this series?
Leland:I think the biggest inspiration around the series was to let all kids see what is possible no matter what background or zip code you are from. And that if you work hard and together as a team you can do pretty much anything.
Me: Both Space Chasers books are grounded in the experiences and emotions of a diverse group of ordinary middle schoolers. What do you want kids, particularly those that struggle, to take away from this story and your own life story?
Leland: Everyone in life struggles at something so if you struggle you are really not alone. It’s good to ask for help if you need it and you should always have a person you can talk to, to help you get through it.
Me: Alison Acton’s bold and detailed illustrations really take us along for the ride. What was your experience or involvement in seeing her help bring your words to life?
Leland: My cowriter Joe and I worked closely with Alison on the graphics but her first cuts were usually spot on. She has such an uncanny knack of putting to words what Joe and I were trying to envision with the series.
Me: I know you’ve been following the Artemis missions. What are your hopes for the next steps of lunar and planetary exploration?
Leland: I’m very excited about the future of the NASA Artemis program with Missions 3 and 4 where there will be boots on the lunar surface again!
Me: I’m excited that book 3 will be out next February! Any more plans for the Steam Team? Can you share what you’re working on next?
Leland: Joe and I are working on a new series but can’t discuss it just yet. It will definitely have space, dogs, curiosity and exploration.
Me: Looking forward to learning more! Thank you so much for chatting, Leland. Wishing your book much success and see you at the Gaithersburg Book Festival!
To learn more, please go to Leland Melvin.
At Scrawl Books, Virginia, 2025
Leland’s official NASA portrait
