Daisy and the Trouble with Space book cover by Kes Gray

Daisy and the Trouble with Space

by Kes Gray | illustrated by Garry Parsons

CEFR A1A2G3 · UWC RecommendedHumourAges 7+
288 pages
ISBN 9780241632024
Puffin, 2024

What This Book Is About

The trouble with space is it's REALLY, REALLY far away. At least, that's what Daisy thinks until her school announces a trip to the planetarium. Suddenly, Daisy is convinced she is destined to become an astronaut. She just needs a rocket, a spacesuit, and maybe a packed lunch. How hard can it be? The answer, as anyone who knows Daisy can guess, is: much harder than she expects—and much, much funnier.

Daisy is the queen of getting into trouble, and this time outer space is the backdrop for her hilarious misadventures. From attempting to build a spacecraft out of cardboard boxes to getting into an argument about whether aliens eat sandwiches, Daisy's unique logic and unstoppable enthusiasm turn every situation into comedy gold. Part of the beloved Daisy series by Kes Gray with illustrations by Garry Parsons, this book is told entirely in Daisy's first-person voice—chatty, opinionated, and laugh-out-loud relatable for any child who has ever dreamed big and gotten into a little trouble along the way.

Available at Popular bookstores, Kinokuniya, and the Singapore National Library.

Why We Recommend This Book

The Daisy series is a proven gateway to independent reading for young learners. Kes Gray writes in short sentences, simple vocabulary, and a conversational first-person style that mirrors exactly how children think and talk. Despite being 288 pages, the book reads quickly because the font is large, illustrations break up the text, and each chapter is short. For A1-A2 readers, the combination of accessible language and genuine humor creates the best possible reading experience: one where the child forgets they are "practicing English" and just enjoys the story.

The space theme also connects naturally to science topics covered in Grade 3 curricula, giving children vocabulary and concepts (planets, gravity, astronauts, the solar system) wrapped in entertainment rather than textbook language. And Daisy herself models something every UWC student needs: boundless curiosity and the willingness to ask "why not?"

Reading Level Guide

A1
A2
This book
B1
B2
C1
Pre-A1

Building reading foundations? Start with picture books and simple labeled stories.

A1A2

The sweet spot. Accessible for A1 readers; A2 readers will read fluently.

B1

A quick, easy read. Great for building speed and confidence.

Other UWC Recommended Books for This Grade

Not sure if this book is right for your child? Take our free English assessment to find their CEFR level, then choose books that match.