About the Book
Discover the Center of the Universe with Sparky!
Join Sparky, the adventurous galaxy-traveling pup, on an inspiring journey across the stars in this beautifully illustrated tale. From the tiniest ant to the grandest whale, Sparky uncovers the amazing secret that every creature, no matter how big or small, is at the center of the universe.
Spark: At the Center of the Universe encourages young readers to see the special importance in all living things and to become Global Galactics-protectors of our planet and explorers of the wonders of the galaxy. This enchanting story is perfect for curious minds and will spark a love for nature, exploration, and the incredible connections that make our galaxy extraordinary.
Highlights:
Inspires children to see the value and importance in every living thing.
Promotes global citizenship and environmental stewardship.
Beautifully illustrated and engaging for readers aged 4 to 8.
Includes a free downloadable activity packet for extended learning.
Perfect for bedtime reading or classroom exploration, Spark: At the Center of the Universe is a must-have addition to any child's library. Dive in and discover how you can be the spark at the center of the universe!
About the Author :
Based on the concept, world, and vision of Karinna and Timothy Karsten, Global Galactics origins began with the globetrotting travels of Timothy and his own pup, Sparky, and their nineteen-year journey together across twenty-two countries and all across the United States. Chronicling their travels, the pair took to schools in Los Angeles through Teach for America, along with visiting Africa and schools in India and Thailand. The eye-opening result was a deep understanding of what was missing for kids. Global Galactics was created to prepare youth for the present and their futures, providing kids with information and tools to build self-confidence and leadership skills and understand themselves and their place in the world.In Global Galactics series debut installment, The Spark at the Center of the Universe, written by the award-winning children's author, Houston Howard, young readers join Sparky on an adventure across the galaxy in this beautifully illustrated tale. Houston was inspired to delve into this subject matter when he heard a cosmologist discuss the universe's endless expansion in all directions. He believes that introducing young readers to our amazing planet and the vast cosmos around it will educate and empower children to appreciate and protect it. His writing mission is to show kids their significance in the world and their ability to positively change it. Global Galactics is a multi-faceted entertainment and education brand designed to inspire, educate, and entertain children while fostering a deep sense of self-leadership, environmental stewardship, and relationship intelligence. Through captivating storytelling, the brand features a diverse cast of characters from Earth and the far reaches of the galaxy, including Sparky, a galactic dog from the star Sirius, who embarks on adventures that teach valuable life lessons. With a wide range of media including picture books, early reader chapter books, original songs, podcasts, and eco-friendly merchandise, Global Galactics engages children in exploring both their own planet and the vastness of the cosmos. The brand's mission is to empower children to become real-life Global Galactics-curious explorers, kind friends, protectors of the environment, and confident leaders who make a positive impact on the world. With plans to expand into film, television, interactive games, and even a musical, Global Galactics aims to create a vibrant community where kids can connect, learn, and collaborate. Leadership expert and creative collaborator Timothy Karsten is a founder of Global Galactics LLC, a branded-ecosystem of content designed to educate, entertain, and inspire young children with original stories about the world around them. Karsten's book The Spark at the Center of the Universe, created with writer Houston Howard, is the cornerstone of the multimedia brand and follows Sparky, a galactic pup, on an adventure across the galaxy, and is the debut installment in a series that will launch original songs, a podcast, and eco-friendly merchandise.The inspiration for Karsten came from his own pup, Sparky, and their nineteen-year journey together across twenty-two countries and all across the United States. With a website that chronicled their travels, the pair took to schools in Los Angeles through Teach for America, along with visiting schools in India and Thailand with a film crew. The eye-opening result was a deep understanding of what was missing for kids. Global Galactics was created to make learning fun and entertaining, providing kids with information and tools to build self-esteem and understand themselves and their place in the world.Karsten's mission with Global Galactics has been influenced by notable creative partnerships such as Steven Spielberg and George Lucas, and master storytellers and image creators such as Dr. Seuss and Charles Schultz. Karsten hopes his young readers come away from his stories with an understanding of the world's interconnectedness and an empowerment that stays with them long after the book is closed. He lives with his wife and creative partner, Karinna, in Coastal Georgia.
Review :
"A brilliant fusion of creativity, empowerment, and, above all, heart! This uplifting narrative shows that every creature, no matter how small, has unique significance, empowering kids to see themselves as essential parts of a larger universe. Like 'The Little Prince' by Antoine de Saint-Exupéry, Sparky's journey invites readers to reflect on their place in the cosmos...the book's emphasis on leadership and environmental stewardship makes this story especially relevant for today's young readers." The Prairies Book Review
"Libraries focused on children's literature, particularly those emphasizing diversity and social-emotional learning, will find this book a valuable addition. It's also excellent for community programs promoting environmental awareness and empowerment. A meaningful adventure that resonates far beyond the stars." Bookview Review
"This story sparks curiosity and a love for global science, the cosmos, and our planet. Read to your kids at bedtime-or anytime!" Honorable David Tokofsky,
School Board Member, Los Angeles Public Schools, California Teacher of the Year
"What an inspiring, empowering, and timely message for children!" - Mattlock London, Author
"What a clever, inspiring way to tie together earth sciences and cosmological curiosity!" Jarrett Golding, Author & Illustrator
