Review: Atmosphere

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

Whilst the book is a work of fiction, it highlights the very real struggle for gender equality at NASA in the 1980s.

The story focuses on a group of "AsCans" (Astronaut Candidates) training to earn a place on the early space shuttle flights. The principal candidates are female trainees who have finally been accepted into the program. At the center of it all is Joan, a brilliant teacher who has been obsessed with the night skies since childhood. Throughout the book, we see her struggles with breaking barriers, balancing family, and navigating her sexuality.

I won't go into too much detail, but let's just say she is a devoted aunt to her sister's child. Her sister frequently takes advantage of Joan's love for her niece; she is the sort of person who clearly loves her child but has a strong tendency to focus on herself.

This is definitely worth a read if you were around in the '80s or have any interest in NASA history.

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