Introducing the fabulous cover for The Astronaut Among the Flowers and Other Stories by P.A. Cornell, out August 18, 2026! We’re delighted to have commissioned Loreto Salinas Retamal for the cover art.

About The Astronaut Among the Flowers

This debut collection by Nebula-nominated author P.A. Cornell (Shoeshine Boy & Cigarette Girl) brings together twenty-one tales of fantasy and science fiction that run the gamut from lighthearted to dark. The stories examine our connections to each other, to technology, to the world that surrounds us, and even to ourselves. Journey through circumstances that defy explanation, and explore events yet to come, that have come before, or that exist outside of time altogether. Included are Cornell’s acclaimed story “Once Upon a Time at The Oakmont,” as well as the award-winning “Splits,” and two brand new works published here for the first time.

About Cover Artist Loreto Salinas Retamal

Loreto Salinas Retamal is a Chilean illustrator of books, many of which are for children. She is also president of the Association of Professional Illustrators (ADIP) in Chile. Loreto is renowned for vivid, organic nature illustrations. We love the movement, vibrancy, and care she gives to her work. We celebrate Chilean-Canadian P.A. Cornell’s heritage by commissioning a Chilean artist for this special collection. The resulting cover illustration instantly transports, and evokes questions that can be answered by reading the science fiction and fantasy stories within. Follow cover artist and illustrator Loreto Salinas Retamal on Instagram.

Preorder The Astronaut Among the Flowers Now!

This is P.A. Cornell’s debut short story collection. The Astronaut Among the Flowers is now up for preorder. Preorder from your favorite booksellers! Find preliminary purchasing links and learn more on the book’s dedicated page. We are proud to showcase P.A. Cornell’s fantastic collection, which releases on August 18, 2026.