Review: Atmosphere

Atmosphere by Taylor Jenkins Reid
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Whilst the book is a work of fiction it does highlight the very real struggle for gender equality at NASA| in the 198os.

The story focuses on a group of AssCans (Astronaut Candidates) training to earn a place on the early space shuttle flights.

The principle candidates are female trainees who have finally been accepted into the training programme. The story centres around Joan, a brilliant teacher who has been obsessed with the night skies since childhood. Throughout we see her struggles breaking barriers, family and those of her sexuality.

I wont go into too much detail but, let's just say she is a devoted aunt to her sister's child. Her sister takes advantage of her love for her niece and is the sort of person who clearly loves her child but, has a tendency to focus on herself.

Definitely worth a read if you were around in the 80s or have any interest in NASA.



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