Find a book
Donate

Cosmic

by Frank Cottrell-Boyce, illustrated by Steven Lenton

Interest age: 9+
Reading age: 9+

Published by Pan Macmillan, 2015

  • Adventure
  • Funny

About this book

Even though he’s only 12, Liam is constantly mistaken for an adult, but he’s still a kid who loves playing computer games and riding rollercoasters. His inquisitive nature and adult appearance often get him into trouble but his dad usually intervenes and helps him avert disaster.

When Liam wins a competition to try out the world’s greatest thrill ride, he and his friend Florida are whisked away to Infinity Park in China by the mysterious Dr Drax. The friends find themselves competing for the chance to be sent into space; soon Liam is playing a grown-up in a situation that his dad can’t save him from.

Fantasy is interspersed with reality in this funny and touching story, which ultimately celebrates parents and the love they give.

About the author

Frank Cottrell-Boyce is a multi award-winning children’s book author and screenwriter. Millions, his debut children's novel, won the prestigious CILIP Carnegie Medal.

His other books include Cosmic, Framed, The Astounding Broccoli Boy, Sputnik’s Guide to Life on Earth, Runaway Robot, Noah’s Gold and The Wonder Brothers. He has enjoyed a long-time collaboration with award-winning illustrator Steven Lenton. His books have been shortlisted for a multitude of prizes, including the Guardian Children’s Fiction Prize, the Whitbread Children’s Fiction Award, The Roald Dahl Funny Prize and the Blue Peter Book Award.

Frank is also a highly successful screenwriter. He has written for the hit TV series Dr Who and his script for Michael Morpurgo’s Kensuke’s Kingdom won a British Animation Award. Along with Danny Boyle, he devised the Opening Ceremony for the London 2012 Olympics. Frank has been the judge for the 500 Words competition and the BBC's One Show As You Write It competition.

Frank is a lifelong champion of children’s books. In 2023 he launched a successful podcast with Nadia Shireen, The Island of Brilliant!, celebrating writing and illustration for children of all ages.

He lives in Merseyside with his family.

 

What to read next

We know that children can get hooked on a favourite book series or author and struggle to find something they love as much, but we’re here to help.

More books like this

Explore our Bookfinder

Lists of recommended reads

Discover more booklists
Share this page Twitter Facebook LinkedIn