BOOKS

The Astronaut Instruction Manual: Practical Skills for Future Space Explorers

by Mike MONGO
1 CD. 47 min. Listening Library. Feb. 2017. $12. ISBN 9781524752163. digital download.
COPY ISBN
Gr 3–7—This is read by the author with input at the beginning from 13-year-old aspiring astronaut Alyssa Carson. It falls somewhere between a pep talk and a lecture on what youngsters might want to learn or consider if they have a serious interest in the space program. He coins a new word to describe such aspirants: humannaires. What follows is a blend of encouragements about the future possibilities; information about what some scientists are currently working on or researching, including moon-sized interstellar vessels; and exercises or experiences youngsters can try as a way to prepare for a path in space exploration. There are many references encouraging listeners to Google terms and people mentioned during the narration.
VERDICT In audio format, this comes across more like a classroom lecture. The author's narration is a bit too flat, so this will likely be of interest to those already very interested in science and/or the space program.
Reviewed by John R. Clark, formerly with Hartland Public Library, ME , Dec 01, 2017

Be the first reader to comment.

Comment Policy:
  • Be respectful, and do not attack the author, people mentioned in the article, or other commenters. Take on the idea, not the messenger.
  • Don't use obscene, profane, or vulgar language.
  • Stay on point. Comments that stray from the topic at hand may be deleted.
  • Comments may be republished in print, online, or other forms of media.
  • If you see something objectionable, please let us know. Once a comment has been flagged, a staff member will investigate.

RELATED 

BLOGS

Where I’m From: The Hometown as a Character, a guest post by Amanda DeWitt
by Amanda MacGregor
BLOGS

C’mon Get Happy: Neal Shusterman discusses his new novel ALL BETTER NOW
by Amanda MacGregor
BOOKS

If I Could Choose a Best Day: Poems of Possibility
by Waters, Charles & Irene Latham, sel
BOOKS

A Universe of Rainbows: Multicolored Poems for a Multicolored World
by Esenwine, Matt Forrest, sel
BOOKS

Photo Ark 1-2-3: An Animal Counting Book in Poetry and Pictures
by Levy, Debbie
BOOKS

A Forest Song
by Hall, Kirsten
More
ALREADY A SUBSCRIBER?

We are currently offering this content for free. Sign up now to activate your personal profile, where you can save articles for future viewing

ALREADY A SUBSCRIBER?