In today’s dizzying world of near-infinite everyday choices — whether it's toothpaste brands, sports drinks, dog kibble, or streaming services — the value of our choices seems diluted to insignificance due to the sheer volume of picks at hand.
But there was a time when middle-grade kids learned the rules of personal choice and were empowered to venture down unexpected pathways in the classic series of "Choose Your Own Adventure" books prominent during the ‘80s and ‘90s.
One such multiple-storyline title published in 1980 was author R.A. Montgomery’s "Space and Beyond," which chronicled the journey of... well, you, but a version of you that was born on a spaceship traveling between galaxies and raised by parents from two different planets.
"You will journey through planets and galaxies and into the unknown universe," states the synopsis.
"Put on your spacesuit and hurtle through space and time to choose the best adventure for you! First, you'll choose the planet of your birth. Does Kenda or Croyd suit you? When you encounter a group of aliens, will you believe them to be friend or foe? Will you face the dangers of a black hole? What will you do when you journey back in time and see dinosaurs up close? Will you bring peace to troubled planets? It's all up to you, so be careful! The choices you make could bring you home or launch you even farther into the infinite depths of the vast universe."
In this extended sneak peek in the gallery above, the vivid interior illustrations provide an enhanced narrative experience where you and a three-eyed alien companion bop around the galaxy in a space pod. You'll avoid a mysterious nebula, seek help from the mother ship, take evasive action against the intense gravitational pull of a black hole, and try not to skip too close to a glaring sun where you might be transformed into energy particles.
Choices have consequences, in art and in life!
With a main cover by Dani Bolinho and colors from Valentina Pinto, "Choose Your Own Adventure: Space and Beyond" arrives courtesy of Oni Press on Aug. 4, 2026.
