Book excerpt: Picture book fiction that accurately depicts the launch of the Space Shuttle--from the eyes of an eight-year-old astronaut! Ever wonder what it would be like to be an astronaut? In "Floating Home," eight-year-old Maxine finds out when she becomes the world's first child astronaut. Written in David Getz's familiar compact and engaging style, "Floating Home" gives kids a chance to journey to space and see the earth in a different light. Michael Rex's illustrations complement the text as they aptly depict the Space Shuttle and all of Maxine's gear. The flair and wit of Michael Rex's art offsets David Getz's deadpan tone to make a child-appealing combination.