School Library Journal calls Matthew Cordell’s STARMAN “Expressive,” “engaging,” and “an exemplary picture book biography” in starred review

★ Starman: The Cosmic Voyage of David Bowie by Matthew Cordell.
48p. Holiday House/Neal Porter. Sept. 2026. Tr $19.99. ISBN 9780823451555. 

“Gr 3-8–Caldecott Medalist Cordell explores the life and music of David Bowie (1947–2016) in his latest title. Bowie was an inventive and ever-evolving musician, and his legacy is captured through the masterful combination of art and text. The text is elevated by the author’s use of questioning at the beginning of each section. Readers are asked to ponder their own place in the cosmos and in the world of creativity, encouraging a connection to Bowie as well as the process of artistic expression. The illustrations vary from highly colorful to sparse while capturing Bowie’s journey as he repeatedly reinvented himself in his efforts to honor his creative soul. Readers unfamiliar with his life and artistry will appreciate the back matter that includes reflections from Cordell, a more detailed biography, and a curated playlist that showcases his musical evolution.

VERDICT: Expressive illustrations and engaging, informative text make this an exemplary picture book biography.”
–John Scott