Disaster strikes! The most dangerous space missions of all time by Jeffrey Kluger

I love science and nonfiction, but, to be honest, I've never been interested in space exploration. However, lots of kids certainly are, and if one is invested in the CSLP summer 2019 theme (A Universe of Stories) all the space books are popular right now.

This chapter book details all the things that can - and did - go wrong on space missions from major, well-known disasters like the Challenger and Apollo 13 to disasters in the Russian space program and the astronaut who almost drowned - in outer space.

Each chapter is dedicated to a different mission and a different disaster. Kluger writes quick, breath-taking prose that includes the lead-up to the disaster, what went wrong, how the astronauts dealt with it, and the aftermath. When death results from the disaster, he writes respectfully and soberly, not giving graphic detail but reflecting on what went wrong and how astronauts are aware of the risks when they sign up.

Back matter includes an author's note, which details his sources, glossary, and index. Each chapter starts with a black and white photo.

Verdict: You'll need readers willing to pick up a book that's all text, although it's not at all dense, but strong readers, especially those who like historical disaster stories (I Survived, Lost, etc.) should be willing to dive into this book, especially as they can sample it chapter by chapter. Recommended.

ISBN: 9781984812759; Published May 2019 by Philomel; Review copy provided by publisher; Donated to the library