Here are some customer reviews of
Riding Rockets: The Outrageous Tales of a Space Shuttle Astronaut
: Some books written by astronauts wind up being heavy on the lingo, acronyms, and technical jargon of spaceflight, and light on the deeper, human experiences it gives. This is a book for those looking for both. While he does describe spaceflight from the standard, gee-whiz side of the business, Mike also shares with us the very human-ness of that experience, including what and who he thought of while on orbit, and the impact his vocation had on his family. There is plenty of humor along the way, and I found it a thoroughly enjoyable book -- one which I will read again.
Mike Mullane is awesome! He is truly an astronaut poet who tells it like it was. His imagery is able to guide the reader through the experiences and emotions of our nation's astronaut corps. This book should be a best seller in place of some of the political trash that makes it to the top.
I hope Mike transfers his talent to novels in addition to his life experiences. I am now a fan who wants to read more!
Bill Heinlein
This is one of those books you wish would go on for another 300 pages. Mullane's ability to capture a moment and translate it into words is rare and wonderful. As he takes you through his first shuttle launch, you feel you are strapped in beside him...scared but wildly excited.
Mullane writes with brutal honesty in discussing shuttle design flaws, moments with his family, and in reacting to potentially career-affecting events. This honesty makes Riding Rockets particularly interesting and genuine.
Most important of all, Mullane IMPROVES the hero image we have of astronauts by showing us the more down-to-earth (pun not intended) elements of astronaut life. He does this in a number of ways, such as through humor. This book will make you laugh and laugh hard.
An excellent book, from countdown to wheel stop.
Probably the most candid view of the astronaut program. This was an interesting read with no "sugar coating". May not be suitable for young kids... should probably be rated R. However, it was funny, engrossing, entertaining, and a quick read. If you ever wanted to interview an astronaut and ask ALL the questions (without reservation), read this book!
If you need political correctness, worship government beauracracies/NASA, or don't have a sense of humor, stick to Oprah's list. If, on the other hand, you'd like a hilarious, real world, all-too-accurate view from the inside of the Shuttle program, this book will hit the spot. One of the few astronauts brave enough to tell the truth as they know it, and one of the fewer still with the gift of great story telling.
It's a great read, even if you aren't a space fan. It's a story anyone determined to reach a dream or who has struggled with corporate nonsense will appreciate.
I'm biased, admittedly. I've known Mike for ~ 20 years and have enjoyed his storys and lectures frequently. As a NASA flight surgeon at JSC from 86-91, everything in this book rings true. Ex: As crew surgeon for STS27, I was fortunate(?) to listen as the Swine Flight went non-stop with doctor jokes (knowing the doc is listening) while on launch hold. Folks that can make jokes while strapped to a rocket are a rare breed. So is this book. Enjoy! Jb
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