The First Cat in Space Ate Pizza

Read the title and look at the illustration on the cover. Then discuss: What do you think the pizza is supposed to be? Do you think pizza will be important in this story? Why or why not?

Determine how much of the book you will read today. Read to that point without interruption, then go back to the beginning of the book and reread, pausing to ask and discuss the following questions. Follow the same routine for each section of the book you read. Encourage your child to support their answers with details from the text.  

After Chapter 5: What is happening to the moon? Who does the head of the Hexagon send to help the moon, and why? Why does Loz stow away on the rocket? Why do the queen, the cat, and Loz visit the Man in the Moon?

After Chapter 10: Why does the ship’s computer go to the rat king? How does this backfire? Why is the moon chair important? How does the giant show kindness, and how does the queen repay him?

After Chapter 17: What is funny about Captain Babybeard? What mistake does the queen make when signing the contract? What does the ship’s computer want?

After Chapter 22: What is the answer to the monster’s riddle? How do the queen, the cat, and Loz get out of the pit? Why are the rats eating the moon? What does Loz discover is his purpose?

There’s a joke in the book about the cat eating—or not getting to eat—pizza. Together, find the spots where the cat almost gets to eat pizza . . . and the moment where it finally does get to eat it!

Finally, read the following quotes:

“Just because something sounds profound doesn’t mean it’s true.” —Queen of the Moon, page 123

“Strange times make for strange alliances.” —Loz, page 139

Then, look up any words you’re not sure about (profound and alliances are two excellent words you might not hear every day).

Literacy Tip

The word tranquility means the state of being calm and peaceful. Understanding this, discuss what’s funny about “the sea of tranquility” on page 173.