Mission to the Moon***
Mission to the Moon***
Mission to the Moon
An inclusive space adventure designed to inspire curiosity, creativity and a love of exploration.
Mission to the Moon is a children's picturebook that combines storytelling, discovery and imagination. Through a journey of discovery, young readers are encouraged to think about space, teamwork, problem-solving and the excitement of exploring the unknown.
Created with accessibility at its heart, the book includes sensory-friendly elements developed in consultation with PAMIS and uses the FSMe font to support dyslexic and neurodivergent readers.
Whether enjoyed at home, in schools or as part of STEM learning activities, Mission to the Moon aims to make the wonder of space accessible to every child.
Learn about the story behind Mission to the Moon
Discover how the book was developed with accessibility in mind
Explore free space-themed activities
See examples of school and community engagement
Read feedback from young readers, parents and educators
View artwork and illustrations from the project
Find out about future developments and opportunities
What Happens in Mission to the Moon
Mission to the Moon follows Stella, a young wheelchair user, and her brother Jake as they embark on an imaginative adventure to the Moon with their Aunt Ava, an Astronaut. Joining them are their faithful companions, Boomer the dog and Midnight the cat.
For Stella, the journey offers something extraordinary. In the microgravity environment of space, she is able to move freely, opening up new possibilities for exploration, discovery and adventure. Through imagination, curiosity and teamwork, Stella and Jake learn what Astronauts do in space and experience the excitement of scientific discovery firsthand.
Throughout their mission, the explorers investigate the lunar landscape, use tools to make fascinating discoveries and learn more about the wonders of space. A shaker and tambourine accompany much of the journey, introducing elements of sound and rhythm that support the book's sensory-friendly approach.
The story celebrates curiosity, imagination, exploration and teamwork while encouraging young readers to become active participants through observation challenges, character searches and interactive questions woven throughout the illustrations.
Through Stella's journey, the story explores how space can inspire us to think differently about ability, exploration and what might be possible in the future.
Meet the Crew
Why I Created Mission to the Moon
A Lifelong Fascination with Space
My fascination with astronomy began at school, where as a sixth former I established an Astronomy Society and became its secretary. During this time, I followed the return of Halley's Comet in 1986 using a high-resolution refractor telescope and invited astronomers to speak about our Solar System, the Milky Way, the wider Universe and emerging discoveries. These experiences helped shape a lifelong passion for space, exploration and science education that would eventually inspire Mission to the Moon.
From Astronomy Club to Space Camp
In 2009 & 2010 I went to Educators Space Academy and Educators Advanced Space Academy and experienced training like an astronaut at the world famous Spacecamp in Huntsville Alabama, USA. The story behind this can be seen in ‘About Me’ page. It was truly inspiring.
I wanted to combine art with education and link various parts of the story to show how Astronauts really live in space and making this engaging for children.
Combining Art, Storytelling and Science
Mission to the Moon was a completely different creative challenge. Although I am primarily known for my figurative landscape paintings and pen-and-ink work, I wanted to branch into figurative illustration using acrylic and pen to portray this story. I wanted to create a visual world that would bring the story to life while combining art with education. By linking elements of the adventure to how Astronauts really live and work in space, the aim was to make learning about space exploration both engaging and accessible for young readers.
Creating an Inclusive Adventure
Mission to the Moon was created with the belief that every child should be able to see themselves in an adventure. Through Stella, a young wheelchair user who experiences the freedom of movement that microgravity can offer, the story encourages readers to think differently about possibility, exploration and the future.
Accessibility was considered throughout the book's development. Working with PAMIS helped inform sensory-friendly elements, while the use of the FSME font supports dyslexic and neurodivergent readers. As someone with dyslexia myself, it was important to create a book that combines imagination, learning and inclusion, ensuring that the wonder of space can be enjoyed by as many children as possible.
Our Story and Timeline
🚀 Initial concept
🚀 Story development
🚀 Research and educational links
🚀 PAMIS consultation
🚀 Accessibility development
🚀 Illustration creation
🚀 Book publication
🚀 School sessions and outreach
🚀 Festival appearances
The Journey to Publication
How did this become a real book?
Our Story and Timeline
2023 – The Idea Begins
The first concept for Mission to the Moon was developed, combining a space adventure with sensory storytelling. Early planning focused on creating an inspiring story that would encourage curiosity, imagination and inclusion.
2024 – Story Development and Illustration
The storyline, characters and rhyming text began to take shape. Initial sketches were created, followed by the development of 20 original illustrations using pen, ink, acrylic and mixed media techniques.
During the summer, discussions with PAMIS began to explore the inclusion of sensory pages and accessible design features.
Late 2024 – Building the Project
The story continued to evolve while illustrations were refined and completed. Advice was sought from disability organisations and charities to help inform the book's accessibility and presentation.
Early 2025 – Publication Journey Begins
Introductions through PAMIS led to collaboration with The Book Whisperers and international bestselling author Mary Turner Thomson. A series of editing, formatting and development sessions helped prepare the manuscript for publication.
Spring 2025 – Illustration Completion
All illustrations were completed and assembled into the book layout. The Mission Patch was also designed, representing the characters, themes and objectives of the story.
Summer 2025 – Review and Testing
Proof copies were reviewed by disability focus groups, educators and young storytellers through PAMIS. Their feedback helped shape the final edits and ensure the book remained engaging, inclusive and accessible.
August 2025 – Launch!
Following final adjustments and publication preparation, Mission to the Moon was officially published on Amazon as a paperback edition, with Kindle and international editions following shortly afterwards.
From the first idea in 2023 to publication in 2025, Mission to the Moon became a collaborative project bringing together storytelling, illustration, education, accessibility and a shared passion for space exploration.
Watch the Mission to the Moon Song on YouTube
With thanks to PAMIS for their support and guidance.
PAMIS helped develop the book's sensory page elements
📷 Early sketches
📷 Character development
📷 Illustration work in progress
📷 Draft pages
📷 Space Camp images
📷 Book launch photos
📷 School outreach sessions
📷 Festival
The Four Stages of an Illustration
Shown below is Looking Back at Earth (Page 13), illustrating the creative process behind each artwork in Mission to the Moon: from the initial concept sketch, through tonal development and composition, to the completed illustration featured in the book.
Image 1 → Concept Sketch
Image 2 → Tonal Background
Image 3 → Character Placement & Composition
Image 4 → Final Illustration
Developed for publication with
The Book Whisperers
PAMIS focus groups helped shape the final version
First public showcase of Mission to the Moon at Literary Escape Festival
School & Community Engagement
Since its development and publication, Mission to the Moon has been shared with schools, community groups and young readers through author talks, online sessions and educational activities. These opportunities have enabled children to explore space, storytelling, creativity and inclusion while engaging directly with the author and illustrator.
School Online Sessions
A number of schools and community groups have taken part in online author sessions, providing opportunities for young readers to learn more about the story, the illustrations and the inspiration behind Mission to the Moon. Discussions often explore themes of space exploration, creativity, accessibility and the process of developing a book from an initial idea through to publication.
Mission to the Moon author sessions are all online and designed to be interactive, engaging and fun. During each session, I read the story to the audience and share the inspiration behind the book, including my interest in astronomy, space exploration and the creative process of writing and illustrating a children's picture book.
Following the reading, children are encouraged to ask questions about the story, the characters, space, illustrations and what it is like to be both an author and illustrator.
For younger age groups, sessions can also include a Mission Patch activity, where children design their own space mission patch inspired by the themes of exploration, teamwork and discovery found within the books.
Sessions may Include
Interactive book readings
Question and answer (Q&A) sessions
Discussion about space exploration and astronomy
Insights into writing and illustrating a children's picture book
Mission Patch design activities for younger age groups
Links to creativity, literacy and STEM learning
Festival appearances
For many children, one of the highlights of a session is receiving a signed copy of Mission to the Moon. Where requested and with parental agreement, personalised copies can be provided following school and community events.
Educational Theme
Mission to the Moon combines storytelling, creativity and space exploration to encourage curiosity and learning. The book supports discussion and activities linked to:
Astronomy and space exploration
STEM learning and scientific discovery
Creativity, art and illustration
Reading, storytelling and literacy
Teamwork, problem solving and imagination
Accessibility, inclusion and representation
Understanding how astronauts live and work in space
Through the story, children are encouraged to ask questions, explore new ideas and discover the excitement of learning about our Universe.
Gallery
📷 School sessions
📷 Festival photos
📷 Children participating in activities
📷 Presenting the book
Via video link - Teams, Zoom, FaceTime
School and class reading sessions are available for schools in the UK and USA. Online sessions can also be arranged internationally. If you would like to discuss a visit or event, please get in touch via the contact section of this website.
Reader Feedback
Thank you notes sent by post from Windham, Connecticut USA, from Astronomy students.
‘Thank you so much for your presentation on Friday. The kids said it was so good’’
‘‘I loved how you shared the book but also the hard work that went into it and the challenges, both personal and professional.’’
‘‘Once again, thank you so much for enriching our astronomy class.’ R. Reyer - Science teacher
These were the thank you notes from the students:
What Young Readers, Parents and Educators Are Saying
"My daughter was delighted to receive her signed copy of Mission to the Moon. She had been asking every day if I had managed to meet David and was genuinely thrilled when I brought the book home. Thank you for making her so happy." See note from Kikka:
— Parent and Teacher, Edinburgh, UK
"Our pupils had such a fun time listening to the story, making Mission Patch badges and seeing all the incredible props and artwork. It was the perfect addition to our Year 1 Space Day. The children who received copies of the book were absolutely delighted."
— Primary School Teacher - Brighton, East Sussex, UK
"Thank you for taking the time to visit our pupils online. They had a fantastic experience and thoroughly enjoyed both the session and the book."
— Headteacher - Brighton, East Sussex, UK
Online sessions with schools
Pamis Facebook post:
Wildhood Festival, Tullihol Castle, Kinross, Scotland, UK 6-8 June 2026. The Festival theme was ‘Space’.
Mission to the Moon Educational Outreach
Current Missions Completed
Brighton College, UK
Windham Technical High School, USA
Silver Sands School, USA
Future Missions
Brighton College Prep School, Handcross
Summer Camp (USA)
Recent Engagements
Windham Technical High School, Connecticut, USA
In January 2026, I was invited to share Mission to the Moon with students studying Astronomy at Windham Technical High School in Connecticut. The session was delivered online and included a reading of the book followed by a question-and-answer discussion.
The students asked thoughtful questions about the story, its inspiration and the process of creating and illustrating a children's picture book. It was a pleasure to share the project with a class already exploring astronomy and space science as part of their studies. Windham Technical High School offers Astronomy as part of its science programme, providing students with opportunities to explore our Solar System, stars, galaxies and the wider Universe.
Brighton College Pre-Prep School, Brighton, East Sussex, UK
In March 2026, I shared Mission to the Moon with pupils at Brighton College Pre-Prep School through a series of online sessions for Reception, Nursery and Year 1 classes. During the sessions, the children enjoyed a reading of the book and took part in a creative Mission Patch activity inspired by the themes of space exploration, teamwork and discovery.
The pupils showed great enthusiasm throughout the sessions, asking questions and engaging with the story and its characters. As part of the programme, 62 copies of Mission to the Moon were personally signed and sent to the school for pupils, helping to create a lasting connection with the book and its message of curiosity, imagination and inclusion.
Silver Sands school, Fort Walton Beach, Florida, USA
In May 2026, Mission to the Moon was shared with students at Silver Sands School in Florida via an online Microsoft Teams session. Silver Sands School provides educational services for children and young adults with a wide range of additional support needs and disabilities.
The 45-minute session involved two classes of older students. Wearing my Space Camp flight suit, I read Mission to the Moon and introduced a variety of space-themed props created to support the story and characters.
The Mission to the Moon song was also featured during the session, followed by an enthusiastic question-and-answer discussion. It was wonderful to share the story internationally and see the pupils' interest in space exploration, creativity and discovery.
Upcoming Opportunities
Further Mission to the Moon sessions are currently being planned.
USA: Discussions are underway regarding a potential online session with a Summer Camp programme. Further details will be announced once arrangements are confirmed.
United Kingdom: Mission to the Moon is expected to be shared with pupils at Brighton College Prep School, Handcross, West Sussex, during the Autumn Term. More information will be available from September.
"Mission Log" of the book's journey around the world.
Mission to the Moon Around the World
Mission to the Moon has been shared with schools, educators, libraries, festivals and community groups in the following countries:
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
🇺🇸 United States
As the project grows, additional countries and international partnerships will be added here.
Then, a year from now, it might become:
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
🇺🇸 United States
🇨🇦 Canada
🇦🇺 Australia
🇳🇿 New Zealand
and so on.
Painting of Brighton College by David
News, Media & Articles
Since its publication, Mission to the Moon has been featured by magazines, educational organisations, disability advocacy groups and community networks in the UK and internationally. These articles, reviews and features have highlighted the book's themes of inclusion, accessibility, imagination and space exploration, while helping to introduce the story to new readers, families, educators and organisations.
Recent coverage includes features in The Table Read Magazine, London Mums Magazine, Disability Arts Online, The Pelican Magazine (Old Brightonians), Aerospace Kinross and the Literary Escape Festival, alongside support from community organisations and fundraising events.
News, Media & Articles
Since its publication, Mission to the Moon has attracted interest from educators, disability advocates, community organisations and media outlets in the UK and beyond. Below are some of the articles, features and community updates highlighting the book and its growing impact.
December 2025 – The Table Read Magazine
A feature exploring how Mission to the Moon combines storytelling, accessibility and space exploration to inspire young readers.
December 2025 – London Mums Magazine
A review of Mission to the Moon, highlighting its inclusive approach, sensory elements and engaging space adventure for children and families.
Old Brightonians – The Pelican Magazine
Feature article: "David Grigor publishes Mission to the Moon: A Sensory Space Story."
September 2025 – Disability Arts Online
Blog feature discussing the development of the book and its commitment to accessibility and inclusion.
November 2025 – Literary Escape Festival
Coverage and social media updates following participation in the Literary Escape Festival.
December 2025, 2026 – AeroSpace Kinross
Community feature highlighting Mission to the Moon and exploring future collaborative opportunities in support of inclusive space education and outreach.
The Neuro-Affirming Network, Saltdean 2026
Mission to the Moon was pleased to support a fundraising event for The Neuro-Affirming Network in East Sussex. Copies of the book were shared with young people and families attending the event.
📰 Read Table Read Magazine Article
📰 Read London Mums Magazine Article
📰 Disability Arts Online
📰 Aerospace Kinross
Original Artwork Featured in Mission to the Moon
The illustrations created for Mission to the Moon began as original acrylic and pen artworks on A2 paper before being reproduced in the book. Together they form a unique collection that tells the story of Stella, Jake and Aunt Ava's journey into space.
Each original artwork is a one-of-a-kind piece and represents an important part of the creative process behind the book. Selected originals, together with framed and unframed prints, are available for collectors, families, schools and organisations who would like to own a piece of the Mission to the Moon story.
The illustrations created for Mission to the Moon were drawn, painted and created by hand by David in acrylic, pen and mixed media as original artworks before being reproduced in the book. The collection includes the 20 published illustrations, development sketches and additional pieces created during the project's development.
Featured artwork in Mission to the Moon
-
![Mission to the Moon - Front Cover]()
Mission to the Moon - Front Cover
Original artwork of Front Cover
Acrylic, pen and mixed media on A2 paper.
Original available.
Signed by the artist.
Price: £795
Prints available.
-
![The Dreams Begins]()
The Dreams Begins
Original artwork from Page 39
Acrylic, pen and mixed media on A2 mixed media paper.
Original available.
Signed by the artist.
Price: £595.
-
![Looking Back at Earth]()
Looking Back at Earth
Original artwork from Page 13
Acrylic, pen and mixed media on A2 mixed media paper.
Signed by the artist
Prints available
Price: £595
-
![Dinnertime in Space]()
Dinnertime in Space
Original artwork from Page 20
Acrylic, pen and mixed media on A2 mixed media paper.
Unframed
Signed by the artist.
Prints available
Price: £595
-
![Returning to the Rocket on the Moon]()
Returning to the Rocket on the Moon
Original artwork from Page 35.
Acrylic, pen and mixed media on A2 paper.
Signed by the artist.
Unframed
Prints available.
Price: £545.
-
![Space Walk]()
Space Walk
Original artwork from Page 16.
Acrylic, pen and mixed media on A2 paper.
Unframed
Signed by the artist.
Prints available
Price: £695.
-
![Toiletting in Space]()
Toiletting in Space
Original artwork from Page 24.
Acrylic, pen and mixed media on A2 paper.
Unframed
Signed by the artist.
Prints available.
Price: £595.
-
![Stepping on to the Moon]()
Stepping on to the Moon
Original artwork from Page 28.
Acrylic, pen and mixed media on A2 paper.
Unframed
Signed by the artist.
Prints available.
Price: £595.
-
![The Big Discovery]()
The Big Discovery
Original artwork from Page 31.
Acrylic, pen and mixed media on A2 paper.
Original available.
Signed by the artist.
Price: £695.
Prints available.
-
![Back at Home]()
Back at Home
Original artwork from Page 39
Acrylic, pen and mixed media on A2 mixed media paper.
Original available.
Signed by the artist.
Price: £595.
Prints available.
Mission to the Moon
The Mission Patch:
This is the badge that Astronauts can wear as an embroidered patch on their clothing , usually woven to the flight suit, Space suit that represents that mission.
It can be nearly any shape but up to particular size.
Mission to the Moon
2D Kinetic Collage Art Project
Project Information
This free project pack includes downloadable templates and is suitable for classrooms, clubs, home learning, holiday activities and community groups.
The activity guides you through creating a 2D artwork featuring all five characters from Mission to the Moon and their journey through space. Some steps may require adult support and simple household materials.
This resource is offered free of charge. If you would like to support the project, donations help fund additional weekly art sessions for individuals with Profound and Multiple Learning Disabilities (PMLD) through PAMIS, enabling more people to access inclusive creative activities.
Join Mission to the Moon and be part of creating wellbeing through art.
Mission to the Moon
Make Your Own Space Helmet
Become an astronaut and create your own space helmet using simple household materials. This step-by-step project shows how a cardboard box, papier-mache and silver foil can be transformed into a space helmet ready for your next mission to the Moon. Follow the nine stages below and let your imagination take flight!
To make a space helmet you’ll need to have the following:
Cardboard boxes - large one measuring something like 40x30x40cms for the larger model, and/or a smaller cardboard box about 30x20x30cms approx.
Celotape, parcel tape, gaffer tape or something similar. Also double sided tape if possible.
Cardbaord from cereal packets or similar.
Scissors
PVA glue
White paper or card and black paper or card
Black pen,
Silver foil and shoes strings, and any other household item you may like to use.
Make Your Own Space Helmet
Ready for launch? Follow these nine simple steps to transform cardboard, paper and silver foil into your very own astronaut space helmet.
Step 1
The templates here can help, however they wont be suitable to print out, so try and copy as best as you can.
Step 2
Assemble the templates together.
Step 3
Assemble the outer shell using cardboard and the offcuts from the box like this:
Step 4
Complete the cardboard assembly.
Step 5
Complete 2nd covering - soft card using PVA glue here and brush
Step 6
Outer-shell - white paper and PVA glue. Can use papier-mache too.
Step 7
The visa - using cardboard, and soft card, white and black card.
Step 8
Fill in the inner cavity with soft card and white paper.
Step 9
Complete the helmet by adding shoe laces, silver foil, black card. Leave the front space open where your face will be for full ventilation and safety.
Now you’re ready to put your helmet on and you are now:
🚀 Ready for launch!
