Tola Okogwu on Champions of the Galaxy and sci-fi books for kids

Blast off into adventure with bestselling author Tọlá Okogwu! In this exclusive Q&A, we chat with the creator of Champions of the Galaxy - the thrilling new middle-grade sci-fi adventure perfect for fans of Star Wars and Marvel, which we are excited to be sharing with our Cockatoo subscribers this month. Twelve-year-old Kola and his team of unlikely heroes journey across the stars, face impossible trials, and discover what it truly means to be a Champion. Here Tọlá shares the inspiration behind her intergalactic world, the powerful lessons at the heart of Kola’s story, and what might lie ahead for the galaxy’s newest heroes.

What inspired you to write Champions of the Galaxy?

I’m a huge fan of sci-fi books and shows, have been since I was a child and I’ve always wanted to write a book set in space or some far off world. So when an idea came to me about aliens turning up on Earth one day with an irresistible offer that children from across the globe must battle to complete, I knew I’d found my story.

What do you think is the most valuable lesson Kola learns?

At the beginning of the story, Kola is a shy, anxious boy who struggles with meeting new people and often feels like his love for astrophysics makes him different or weird. But through his adventures, he discovers that quiet leadership–the act of listening to others, thinking things through and standing firm in what you believe–can be just as powerful as being the most confident person. That's a lesson I hope resonates with children who might feel overlooked or think they don’t have anything to contribute.

What would you like readers to take away from the book?

I hope that Kola’s journey helps readers to see that they already have the power to make change in their own lives and communities. In the end, Kola doesn't need alien technology or special powers to make a difference. He uses empathy, critical thinking, and the courage of his convictions. Tools every child already has at their disposal should they choose. Whether it's standing up to a bully, helping someone in need, or caring for our environment, young people can be champions right now, wherever they are.

Can you tell us anything about what the future holds for Kola and the other Champions?

They save Earth of course!! But seriously, even though the book isn’t officially part of a series, I’ve definitely left the door open for more adventures. I’d love to take Kola and the other Champions back into space one day to explore more planets and meet more aliens.

What would you do, or create, in the MindMesh?

Ooh, this is a tough one. I’m actually a very boring person so I’d probably create the most comfy bed that ever existed so I could take the most epic naps!

Do you have a favourite place to write?

Anywhere with some peace, quiet and great coffee! My house is very busy so it can be hard to find peaceful moments to write. Hotels are great for this actually and I sometimes take myself for a few days, especially if I’m up against a deadline.

Why did you choose to write books for this age group?

Chapter books are where the magic happens. It’s how I fell in love with books and I believe it’s where life-long readers are truly made. That’s why it’s so exciting to write in this space and to contribute to the stories that create those readers. 

Which other sci-fi books for kids would you recommend our subscribers read next?

Escape Room by Christopher Edge, The Wild Robot by Peter Brown and for the older crowd, The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins is a classic.

Copies of our Champions of the Galaxy pack, including a copy of the book and loads of fun activities to go with it, are now available for individual purchase. Grab a copy while stocks last!

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