Bubbs in Space

An exciting, space-themed children’s book about autism awareness!

WECT News

World Autism Awareness Day - 2026

“Hampstead author uses children’s book to promote autism awareness”

Children's book cover titled 'Bubbs in Space' featuring cartoon kids in bubble space suits and space background.
 

About the book…

Bubbs in Space invites readers into the dreams of Orion, a young boy on the autism spectrum, as he explores distant planets that reflect his unique sensory world. Through this cosmic journey, Orion’s siblings model how to support, love, and enjoy life alongside those who experience the world differently.

Author Emily Jean Sanders created this series to bridge the gap in understanding for young children, transforming autistic traits into a natural, celebrated part of a shared universe. More than just a story, Bubbs in Space is a heartwarming tool for embracing neurodiversity, teaching every reader that our differences are exactly what make our world—and our friendships—so extraordinary.

Funded on

“Bubbs in Space” was successfully funded on 3/12/22! 100 hardcover copies of "Bubbs in Space" were self-published through BookBaby with the addition of a POD (print on demand) option that will be available for larger distributors. There are plans for more “Bubbs in Space” adventures in the future!

"Bubbs in Space" showcases some of the common behaviors that come with autism as well as how to help, support, and enjoy life alongside our neurodiverse friends. In the book, Orion's siblings show different ways you can be supportive and loving towards children on the spectrum.

Bubbs is honored to be a Kickstarter “Project We Love”!

Readers’ Favorite 5-star reviewed children’s book!

A circular logo for Firebird, featuring a stylized firebird with orange and red flames, with the text 'Speak Up Talk Radio' at the top and 'Book Award Winner' at the bottom.

1st Place winner for Children’s Picture Books Ages 4-8!

📚🚀✨ Click to visit the Space Shop!

📚🚀✨ Click to visit the Space Shop!

A young woman with long, purple-tinted hair, wearing glasses and a denim jacket, sitting at a table in a cafe or restaurant. She has a subtle smile and is resting her chin on her hand. The background features a blue booth and green outdoor foliage.
A ball of gray yarn with a knitting needle through it, floating in space with a starry background and purple nebulae.

Meet the Author!

Emily Jean Sanders lives in coastal North Carolina and believes in fully embracing love, our differences, and our abilities. She is the mother of 4 children which has taught her how to slow down and speed up when it comes to progress. She is also the owner of Queen of Teacups which offers art, design, seasonal teas, and community. Outside of creative endeavors, she helps other mothers navigate the world with their autistic children and helps women that are looking to free themselves from domestic violence.

Her first children's book, "Bubbs in Space", is about her autistic son, Orion. The story is designed to help people of all ages understand and explain some of the typical behaviors they may encounter when meeting new friends with colorful minds. "Bubbs in Space" is the first of many books she desires to write for autistic children and their friends.

Meet the Space Crew!

  • Cartoon illustration of a Bubbs with stars on its chest, floating in space with a colorful nebula and white star-like particles in the background.

    Bubbs

    Main Character & Spacecraft Collector

  • A cartoon green astronaut with an 'N' on its body, floating in space with scattered stars and cosmic clouds in the background.

    Nick

    Navigator & Communication Specialist

  • A cartoon purple Lyra with a heart on her chest, and a small antenna on her head, floating in space with stars in the background.

    Lyra

    Lyricist & Hug Expert

  • A cartoon purple Arya with a heart on her chest, and a small antenna on her head, floating in space with stars in the background.

    Arya

    Food Connoisseur & Snuggler

A young child with long, wavy brown hair wearing a gray knit beanie and a red T-shirt, touching their lips with their fingers, indoors with a blurred background.
A cartoon-style rocket ship flying in space with a star in the background and white specks representing stars or space debris.

Meet Bubbs!

Hi! I’m Orion (aka Bubbs). I was diagnosed with ASD (Autism Spectrum Disorder) at two and a half years old. When I reached my first birthday, my mom noticed signs that I may be growing and learning differently. I started early intervention services, giving me access to a play and speech therapist.

I know hundreds car makes and models and have an extensive ASL (American Sign Language) vocabulary! I amaze my family, friends, therapists, and teachers every day!

I love all kinds of cars! I sort them, line them up and know immediately if one is out of place. My mom used rockets in my book to symbolize my special interest in cars.

Mom wrote this book to spread awareness about some of the things I do and experience differently as an autistic person. She wants everyone to know how amazing it is to have a variety of friendships in their lives.

Thank you for reading about me and it is nice to meet you! Always move forward in your life in love. In love with everything… always.

A blue cartoon Bubbs character with a star pattern on its chest.