Step into the cosmic whirlwind of Space Taxi, where an ordinary kid named Archie Morningstar blasts off on extraordinary adventures in an intergalactic taxi! Written by Wendy Mass and Michael Brawer, this science fiction chapter book series for young readers mixes humor, heart, and a sprinkle of real science to spark imaginations. Perfect for kids who dream of zooming through wormholes or battling space villains, Space Taxi delivers fast-paced fun that’s out of this world.
From its quirky talking cat sidekick to its family-driven narrative, the series captures the thrill of discovery while grounding its cosmic capers in relatable themes. Whether you’re a young reader or a parent seeking a story that entertains and educates, Space Taxi is a ticket to adventure.
How Space Taxi Began
Wendy Mass, a New York Times bestselling author known for titles like The Candymakers, teamed up with educator Michael Brawer to create Space Taxi. Inspired by a shared love of science fiction, they crafted a series that blends zany adventures with accessible science facts. Launched in 2014, the series was designed to hook reluctant readers with its short chapters and playful tone, while subtly teaching concepts like gravity and wormholes. Mass’s childhood dream of becoming an astronaut fueled the series’ vibrant space setting, making it a love letter to cosmic curiosity.
The Heart of Space Taxi
The series kicks off with Space Taxi: Archie Takes Flight, where 8-year-old Archie joins his dad for Take Your Kid to Work Day, only to discover his father’s taxi zips across the universe! As Archie becomes his dad’s copilot, he navigates wormholes and meets Pockets, a laser-shooting, gadget-stashing talking cat. In Space Taxi: Water Planet Rescue, Archie and crew tackle a water-stealing crisis on the underwater planet Nautilus, thwarting the evil organization B.U.R.P. Space Taxi: Archie’s Alien Disguise sees Archie donning a disguise to save a three-eyed princess, while Space Taxi: The Galactic B.U.R.P. ramps up the stakes with a showdown against B.U.R.P.’s mothership.
At its core, Space Taxi weaves themes of family, responsibility, and curiosity. Archie’s bond with his supportive dad and caring mom anchors the wild adventures, while his growth as a brave, quick-thinking copilot inspires young readers. The series’ playful humor—think slapstick alien encounters and Pockets’ sarcastic quips—pairs with vivid settings, from water worlds to medieval planets with rainbow-haired inhabitants. Glossaries and science facts at the end of each book make learning about space seamless and fun, appealing to kids and educators alike.
Why Space Taxi Resonates
Space Taxi has carved a niche in children’s literature by blending sci-fi excitement with emotional depth. Its fast-paced plots and relatable characters hook reluctant readers, while its science-infused storytelling sparks interest in STEM. Nominated for awards like the 2017 Grand Canyon Reader Award, the series has earned praise for its imaginative settings and inspirational hero in Archie. Fans on platforms like Goodreads laud its read-aloud appeal, with parents noting how it captivates kids aged 6–10 with laughter and wonder.
Though not as widely known as some blockbusters, Space Taxi’s charm lies in its niche appeal: a heartfelt, accessible sci-fi romp that encourages kids to dream big and explore the universe. Its legacy endures in classrooms and libraries, where it continues to ignite young imaginations.
- Publication Years: 2014–2017
- Number of Books: 6
- Awards: Nominated for 2017 Grand Canyon Reader Award, 2016 Pennsylvania Young Reader’s Choice Award
- Target Age: 6–10
Grab Space Taxi: Archie Takes Flight and buckle up for a hilarious, heartwarming ride through the stars!