Toto

Ximo Abadía (Author, Illustrator) Ximo Abadía is a highly acclaimed artist, living and working in Spain. He has illustrated numerous publications including The Speed of Starlight and his work was selected for the Bologna Children's Illustrator's Exhibition in 2017.

Could a donkey ever become an astronaut? Spanish illustrator and author Ximo Abadía turns on the charm in this colourful and clever picture book which encourages children to follow their dreams however impossible they may seem to be. Living in a small town, ambitious young donkey Toto dreams of escaping what seems to be the pre-ordained life in front of him. He will never become a porter, ferrying loads up the mountainside day after day... he will become an astronaut instead! Toto bravely packs his bags, kisses his parents goodbye and sets off for the bright lights of the big city. Even when all his money for astronaut school is stolen by thieves, his hard work and stubborn determination sees him through. And when the small town is woken in the night by a huge roar, everyone is delighted to see that Toto has come back to them on a rocket. His dreams have finally come true! Abadía's endearing tale, illustrated with vivid surrealist artwork, is as imaginative as it is bold. The striking palette of vivid primary colours is the perfect complement to this warm and inspirational story. Clever in its simplicity and eye-catching in its pictorial presentation, this beautiful story proves that reaching for the stars can leave you over the moon!