Ruben and the Curious Cosmonaut, published by Curtis Publishing Company, launches The Great Disguise Series for readers who rarely see thoughtful, introverted children at the center of fantasy adventures.
Author A R Marchant has released Ruben and the Curious Cosmonaut, the first title in The Great Disguise Series, a new middle-grade fantasy. Written for readers ages 8–12, unlike the traditional action-driven fantasy tropes, this novel centers on heroism that focuses on emotional resilience, observation, and courage.
The novel follows Ruben, an introverted boy whose life suddenly takes an unexpected turn when he discovers a mysterious helmet in his grandfather’s costume shop, which transports him into a collapsing world of drifting machinery, fading stars, and a failing Cosmic Engine. Alongside a glowing companion named Sparky and a reluctant robotic guide, Ruben must help restore balance to a world that depends not on force but on patience, empathy, and attention to detail.
While the story contains classic fantasy-adventure elements, the book is positioned toward children who do not naturally identify themselves with loud or fearless protagonists. With themes of belonging, emotional intelligence, quiet confidence, and self-discovery, this book proposes to make a prominent shift in children’s literature.
Marchant, who works in technology, said the story grew from an interest in how children experience self-belief and emotional connection.
“I wanted to write a story for children who notice things deeply but don’t always see themselves reflected in traditional fantasy heroes,” said Marchant. “Ruben succeeds because he pays attention, listens and keeps going even when he feels uncertain. That felt important to me.”
Published in paperback and Kindle editions, Ruben and the Curious Cosmonaut launches the planned five-book Great Disguise Series. Future installments will continue exploring themes of identity, wonder, courage, and emotional growth through interconnected fantasy adventures.
Book Information
- Title: Ruben and the Curious Cosmonaut
- Series: The Great Disguise Series
- Author: A R Marchant
- Publisher: Curtis Publishing Company
- Publication Date: May 5, 2026
- Format: Paperback and Kindle
- Print Length: 130 pages
- ISBN-13: 979-8950388323
- ASIN: B0GZYM4LMR
- Recommended Age Range: 8–12
- Purchase Link: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0GZYM4LMR/
About the Author
A R Marchant is a children’s author based in Somerset, England. He writes middle-grade fiction focused on wonder, emotional honesty and character-driven adventure. Drawing from a lifelong interest in the extraordinary hidden within ordinary places, Marchant created The Great Disguise Series to explore how quieter children experience courage, belonging and personal growth. He works in technology and lives with his wife, daughter and two dogs.
Media Contact
Andy Marchant
Website: https://andymarchant.com/
Email: marchantsuk@gmail.com
Media Contact
Company Name: Curtis Publishing Company
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Phone: +1 (215) 258-8967
Address:170 S Independence Mall W
City: Philadelphia
State: PA 19106
Country: United States
Website: https://curtispublishingcompany.com/
