Space Books

This is a fascinating book that details the Gemini/Titan launch system. It explains how the system functioned as well as the record breaking firsts. They performed the first orbital rendezvous of two manned spacecraft. The first docking of a manned spacecraft was also worked out in Gemini. The book tells of Borman and Lovell's 206 orbit long duration trip. The ultimate story of Frank White's spacewalk was told. He proved that a man could survive and perform basic tasks in space. This book is a treasure of information about all aspects of the Gemini missions and is well worth buying.

"How NASA Learned To Fly In Space" is, as the sub-title says, "An exciting account of the Gemini missions." Gemini, the bridge between Mercury and Apollo, is often overlooked, yet these missions stand as a testament to the skill, flexibility, adaptability, and creativity of the Gemini engineers and astronauts - taking space exploration from the knowledge that man can live in space (Mercury) through to the successful Moon landings (Apollo) - learning all the way. In this book, David Harland gives the reader an incredible sense of the achievements and dangers of each of the ten Gemini missions. The reader feels as though he has been taken along for the ride with the astronauts. This book is a must-have for any space-exploration library!

This is a very readable account of the Gemini missions of 1965-66 which were launched at the breathtaking pace of one every other month. Harland intersperses accounts of the plannning and execution of the missions with the dialogue of the astronauts and mission controllers in such an absorbing way that it is difficult to put the book down at times. The intricacies of orbital rendesvous are explained lucidly and should be easy to follow by anyone with basic technical knowledge.
The photos are in sharp black and white and complement the text nicely. A lot of them first appeared in the original Nasa Fact Sheets which I still have.
I would recommend this to anyone interested in spaceflight as it comprehensively covers a programme which is all too often overshadowed by the glamour of project Apollo.

Lots of good reviews here, but I just wanted to say that what made this book for me were great personalities like Wally Schirra, who (rightly) brags about his first rendezvous in space while (again rightly) trashing the Soviet Union's claims of rendezvous.

The Gemini spacecraft was a dream, too, and we learned a hell of a lot while using it. This book captures those pioneering days well.

The Gemini program dominated the public conciousness of the US space program for two years from April 1965 until the final flight in the latter part of 1966. The first spacewalk, the double mission of Gemini 6 & 7 before Christmas in 1965, the Agena missions and spacewalks of 1966 all prepared us for the greater glories to come in the Apollo program. The space photography accomplished during the missions provided the clearest view yet of how earth looked from space. David Harland's book (consistent with other books he's written) provides a wonderful narrative of the Gemini program and missions and takes us back to the time when we realized we may actually get to the moon.

Joseph Campbell has been my mentor for years. He brings our consciousness to another level with this one!!!

I know, I know, everyone will point to Campbell's astonishing Hero with a Thousand Faces, and his 4-part book series on different traditions, but I love this book. I think it's because it is Campbell in his later years, synthesizing all he has learned over decades of study, and applying it to the future. It also is one of the more accessible Campbell books in terms of folks who don't usually read high-end academic works being able to follow it without re-reading every other paragraph. (That is NOT a criticism -- Joseph Campbell packed a lot into each of his brilliant thoughts). Another book I'd recommend is the biography on him, "Fire in the Mind."

Reading Campbells' work can indeed be an enlightening experience and "The Inner Reaches of Outer Space" is no exception...mostly. The book however strays dangerously close to the "New Age" in several places. In an early chapter he presents Kants' idea of a priori knowlage as proven fact (it is far from proven). In another chapter he lapses into a discussion that sounds suspiciously like numerology (Mr. Campbell, someone as smart as you should know that there is no connection between the number of bumps on a golf ball and hindu mythology.) These minor flaws aside, it is a brilliant book and a great summation of Campbells work.

In THE INNER REACHES OF OUTER SPACE Joseph Campbell repeats some of the familiar observations of his earlier works in which he shows how certain mythic motifs can be found buried in all of the world's religious traditions. The similarities may not be easily recognized because the same motifs are usually understood and developed in different ways because of cultural differences. These repetitive motifs are called elementary ideas and in the local forms where they appear in various religions they are known as ethnic or folk ideas. As examples of elementary ideas Campbell offers the concepts of the Promised Land and the Virgin Birth. In writing about the similarities of symbols found in ancient civilizations, Campbell mentions discoveries among such diverse societies as those that existed in the Indus Valley, Mesopotamia, Egypt, China and Ireland.

Because of the great advances in learning which have become accelerated and dramatized by space exploration, Campbell points out that our old gods are either already dead or dying. The big question now is what new mythology will emerge from a modern understanding of a unified planet amidst a vast universe.

The creation of any new mythology will certainly depend in part on the contributions of art because artists will be the ones who will produce the images of the future. Those images will come from our knowledge of a constantly changing and expanding universe. Campbell writes about the connection between art and mythology with conviction, no doubt due to the long-standing influence of his wife, Jean Erdman, a well-known dancer and choreographer.

The most remarkable feature evident in THE INNER REACHES OF OUTER SPACE is the breadth and depth of the author's knowledge and understanding of mythology. Joseph Campbell led an enviable life driven by a singular passion and his writings are the best reflection of that life.

Joseph Campbell introduces us to the world of mythology and reality making the case that for most of human history, they are one in the same.

I give this book 5 stars because it is the best presentation of this type of information for laymen I have found.

His writings have brought up the argument that what is lacking in America today is an education in mythology. This is something that would not only enhance an individuals life by adding value to our culture which is in my opinion too often dismissed as empty, but also would enhance our connection with our past and our future.

Joseph Campbell has influenced many people and many creative efforts. George Lucas credits Mr Campbell with making StarWars a better movie. In fact Mr Campbell's interviews with Bill Moyers (on many PBS stations) was taped at Skywalker Ranch. I found this link indranet.com/welcometoearth having searched for information about Mr Campbell.

In addition to those seeking anthropological or spiritual information, if you enjoy magical stories like Harry Potter or science fiction stories then you will enjoy The Inner Reaches of Outer Space.

I've read Science Fiction for a long time but haven't encountered much YA SF until recently. This book is now one of my favorites. It does explain some science: gravity, spaceflight, Mars conditions etc. But it mostly deals with how people live, act and react in these different future conditions and locations. I loved how the story showed that our point of view and preferences are largely based on what we've been exposed to so far in our life. Melinda has to deal with new things, ideas, people and places that are different and hard for her. As she comes to understand, accept and even like the alien things and people of Mars we also are taught to be more open minded. Melinda is a great character. It was good to read a Martian novel again - it seems like there has not been many recently.

Melinda should be happy to get to travel to Mars with her dad. Everyone wants to go to space, don't they? But not 18-year-old Melinda. She had her life all planned out with her earthbound boyfriend, and she's not happy when dad springs this graduation trip on her. Still, it's for less than a year, she can start college when she gets back, and her boyfriend will still be waiting.

Once she arrives on Mars, she's surprised at how, well... civilized the colonies are. Of course, she makes a few enemies when she inadvertently insults colonists she meets by calling them the equivalent of savages. Still, she manages to make friends with a second-generation colonist named Alex and is soon torn between new love and old prejudices.

Wow did I love this book. I grew up on old sci-fi young adult books, especially those of Robert A. Heinlein. The moment I first saw this book on the shelf in hardcover, I wanted to read it. The cover just reminded me of Podkayne of Mars (by Heinlein), which was one of my teenage favorites. As it turned out, both books were originally published about seven years apart. I did hesitate to buy Journey Between Worlds, because I had a couple of other books by the author, and neither book had really caught my interest, but I was in love with this one from the first page.

The author, Sylvia Engdahl, writes after the story about how when she re-released this book, all she did was update some facts about Mars, but in essence, this is the same book that she published in 1970. And the book still holds a lot of truth. Journey Between Worlds is about the unknown and shaking your life up. Melinda expects Mars to be cold and dome life to be a sterilized bore. True, there are some differences, meat is synthetic and everyone lives in apartments due to space issues, but she finds that people adapt and can love this life just as much as the one back on Earth. She simply can't comprehend why someone would choose to leave Earth for Mars or if they were born on Mars, not move back to Earth. Alex, her new Mars born friend, especially puzzles her, because he spent a few years in college on Earth and actually wanted to return to Mars to live out his life. His choice to live on Mars makes no sense to Melinda.

While the book has science fiction elements, it's more of the pioneering western sci-fi. A sub-category all of its own, it's one that I personally love. There's something so human about adapting to a new environment, the give and take of living and molding the land into what we want. Humanity has never been happy with where it is, and the stars are simply the next great unknown. I think a lot of 50s, 60s, and 70s era sci-fi really captures that wonderment in a unique way, because at the time, humanity hadn't yet put its footprint on the Moon and there was still so much unknown. (Yes, I know, the first moon landing was 1969 and the book was published in 1970, but you have to allow a year or so for publishing.) And after we did land on the Moon, it was suddenly all possible, and we could begin to imagine that our children's children might really live in colonies on the surfaces of other planets.

Another great aspect of this book is the pioneer spirit. As I touched on before, Melinda can't understand why people would want to live away from Earth, just like others have wondered why someone would want to cross the deadly ocean from England or make the trek to Oregon. For as long as pioneers have made the journey, there have also been those wondering why someone would want to leave. Sure, space might be getting cramped, but why risk the dangers of the unknown? Engdahl does an excellent job of showing the journey of Melinda's thoughts and giving us a very believable conclusion to her story. I really felt like Melinda was growing and changing, that she was a real person telling me a story.

Lessons on growing up are often unpalatable for teens, but this one tastes great! I can still remember the first time I read it upon its original publication. It stresses that sacrifice for the greater good of all humanity is one of the highest qualities a person can strive to have. Great science facts are also included.

Reviewed by Kim Peterson for Reader Views (4/06)

Melinda plans to marry Ross after graduation and someday live at Maple Beach in the house she will inherit from Gran. She fosters no aspirations to pioneer new places like her ancestor Melinda who traveled across the plains to Western Oregon in a covered wagon. She plans to teach and live a quiet life. But her father's graduation gift threatens to change her world-literally. He offers her a ticket to accompany him on a year-long business trip to the colonies on Mars.

Wanting to reconnect with her father and responding impulsively to her fianc?'s negative reaction, Melinda boards the Susan Constant and journeys to Mars. She compares everything about the trip and her time on the planet to Earth. She misses the abundant water, the fresh air, the rhythm of the ocean and "normal" gravity. If it weren't for Alex Preston, a second-generation Martian colonist, she might not have learned many of the positives that life on Mars offered or the thoughtfulness of genuine love.

Engdahl's science fiction romance targets young adult readers well. Melinda tells her story in first person with believability and the indecisiveness and emotion that naturally accompany major life decisions when the ramifications will last forever. The journey between worlds literally spans between Earth and Mars, but it also shows her journey into adulthood as well as the shift in her thinking about what she wants from life.

I enjoyed my return visit into the world of Engdahl's books. She updated this volume to reflect what we now know about Mars, and to reflect our shift in thinking about women. However, the book seems to me as fresh as it did when I read it as a child. The pace moves a bit slower than today's readers might expect, but the story line remains solid and the themes still feel relevant today. What a thrill to see Engdahl's books back in print!

Melinda doesn't want to go to Mars. Why leave Earth when everything humans are meant to enjoy is there? But when her father, whom she's only seen sporadically over the last ten years, asks her to join him on a business trip to one of the Mars colonies after she graduates from high school, she can't bring herself to refuse him. Little does she know her months on Mars will change the way she thinks about life, love, and humanity.

With JOURNEY BETWEEN WORLDS, Sylvia Louise Engdahl has written a science-fiction story that will appeal to a variety of teens. Melinda faces many of the same problems today's young adults do, only in an otherworldly location. The first person narrative puts readers right inside Melinda's head and allows them to see through her eyes. Her struggle to overcome her fear of change and to examine her feelings and beliefs honestly should resonate with anyone uncertain of exactly who they are and want to be.

The story, of course, is not only about Melinda, but also Mars. The descriptions of Mars and its colonies are fascinating in their detail and realism, providing an exciting setting for Melinda's personal conflicts. The colonists, with their pride and passion, will make readers wonder if they, too, would have the pioneer spirit.

I would recommend JOURNEY BETWEEN WORLDS to any teen looking for a thought-provoking read. Unlike many science-fiction novels, this is not a story of action and technology, but rather of wonder. I'll admit, at times I wished there was more excitement, but overall it was a satisfying read. Both Melinda's problems and the issues raised by the colonization of another planet will give readers much to ponder long after they've finished reading.

Reviewed by: Lynn Crow

When other books fail to get me to sit down and read, this book has always been a true joy. The authors implemented the beauty of art and photography with the quest for the remote unknowns that allow the reader's imagination to grow freely. The contrast between the dark and immense space and colorful and selective graphs grasps the reader's curiosity for search for clues on the ultimate purpose of the universe.

During cold and long nights, that book brings the pleasure of rejoicing the triumph of our human race over myth and trivial conflicts that plagued our long history. The authors demonstrate the immense potential of science and international cooperation in space discovery. It also addresses fundamental issues such as the origin of both biological life as well as stellar and planetary life. Of course, the book did not attempt to explain why some elements were more abundant in the solar system than others, or whether there was an ultimate secret in the large space universe versus the immensely small nuclear core of atoms, or why atoms behaved in such manner that created life and organic matter. The book however laid out the authors' current knowledge about the solar system.

Compared to the construction of the Great Pyramids of Egypt, the space program has comparably gigantic antennas of 70 meters diameter, similarly gigantic rocket launching structures, oddly designed neutrino detectors of 40 meter by 40 meters and over a thousand of photo-detectors. The book displays such human yearning for the history-long quest for knowledge of the greater world, with comparable passion for integrating many fields of knowledge.

The sad fact about the science of astronomy is the minute number of scientists of merely 1500 worldwide. While the Pyramids were built thousands years ago with resourceful and generous commitment by the weak state, modern astronomers are confronted with indifferent statesmen and the public that is more interested in feeding, educating, and caring for its own exploding population growth.

As the authors stated in the book introduction, that book neither is a textbook or a coffee table book, but rather in between. The book includes plenty of tables, graphs, and photos without delving into the hard science of space physics. The book reads like an illustrated story telling about the events in the solar system. It thus provides the reader with plenty of food for thought.

The main drawback in the book is the variation of writing styles from one chapter to another since each chapter is written by a different coauthor. Such lack of systematic approach to each topic in the book leaves the reader with the extra task of sorting out its unexpected flow of thoughts. I would rather prefer the unified template of thought flow along all the chapters in order to facilitate the comparison between the different members of the solar system.

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This book is packed full of exciting pictures and is an in depth look at the solar system based on that latest discoveries in space exploration. It is an exciting read for anyone who is into astronomy. Some parts of the book are filled with scientific detail that can be difficult to read, but can be understood if you are willing to get through them.

As a layperson reading this book, I find it very easy to understand what is being said, and I feel that I am learning a great deal from it. The writing is interesting enough to hold my attention and keep me from drifting off, which is a problem I have with many other science texts. Overall, I am finding reading this book an enjoyable experience.

This is a very thorough book, covering many important aspects of planetology. Its level of depth is very adequate to its intended public, that of non-expert but "science-literate" people. Although slightly out-of-date (it's been 5 years since its publication), most of its content is still considered correct. It is a shame that its Amazon average customer review has been degraded by Robert M Carto's unfortunate reviews. Unfortunate because they represent the opinion of someone who believes in the theories of Immanuel Velikovsky. Velikovsky's theories are considered unscientific by the vast majority of astronomy professional researchers (including myself) who have read them.

It's easy to read! You can read the chapters in just about any order. The material is mostly descriptive, without any complicated mathematics. And it's a terrific collection, with wonderful color pictures, graphs, and charts. This Fourth edition (1999) is the first to have pictures (and other data) of Jupiter and of the Jovian satellites taken by the Galileo mission. And yes, I suspect there will be a fifth edition which will include, among other new material, pictures of Saturn and its satellites taken by the Cassini mission.

This is the best possible introduction to the study of our Solar System. I'd recommend reading it before getting into a more formal university textbook on the subject.

THE NEW TIME TRAVELERS: A JOURNEY TO THE FRONTIERS OF PHYSICS straddles the line between science fiction and science fact, offering both college-level science libraries and general-interest public lending libraries a lively survey of scientific inquiry based on a group of theoretical physicists at the California Institute of Technology who undertook a serious investigation of the possibilities of pastward time travel and its possibilities. Their inquiry tried to determine the viability of time travel: their results blends science and philosophy in a lively survey perfect for either casual reading or classroom debate.

When I was a kid I was completely mesmerized by the Time Tunnel -- a 1960s sci-fi series about two research scientists who become trapped in a top secret portal through time. David Toomey doesn't have my beloved Dr. Tony Newman (played memorably by James Darren, in form-fitting corduroy) but his book is populated by scientists who, if not quite as sexy, are just as captivating. I found myself fascinated by the book's take on the scientific community and how it works -- how concepts evolve over time, and also, maybe even especially, how ideas can migrate back and forth between scientists and the world of science fiction. Toomey does a great job of making the science itself accessible, but for me the really careful description of how scientific insight builds over time, how epiphanies large and small, new and sometimes pretty old, accumulate and eventually become theories, was worth the price of admission alone. The politics of science research and publication is also really present in the book -- I got a good sense of how on-the-ground professional factors shape the high-flying theory in play. It was a great read.

Many casual lay readers may find some of these intriguing space time concepts difficult to visualize. Many more and better pictures would have made this book more accessible. For the description of dynamic ideas like "time machines" a picture is indeed worth a thousand words. If you have seen a Nova TV program on space time you know what I mean.

A gripping read about what is often a daunting topic, Time Travelers takes us on an intellectual and imaginative journey through science, science fiction, and the lives of scientists. Books on these topics can often be obscure or overly fanciful. This one is delightfully alive, and Toomey is never less than careful in both the physics and speculations about time travel. A lesser writer would have fudged the facts to make room for fantasy, but Toomey builds a smart and powerful (though qualified) case for a kind of time travel that retains enough fantasy to keep the pages turning but never scrimps on the facts. Another fine effort by an excellent writer.

Anytime that I have picked up a book about the space-time continuum and quantum physics I feel that the adventure begins. Unfortunately the adventure can end quite early if the writing is thick and obscure as a tunnel that connects two black holes. Mr. Toomey's book, however, is extremely readable. In fact I couldn't put it down. He manages to explain complex ideas and theories very clearly and understandably. I enjoyed this book very much and encourage anyone with an interest in time travel to pick it up and give it a read. This is a fun book!

A very nice throughly researched book on the early days of live televised science fiction. Throughout the book the author compares Space Patrol with Star Trek although the series has much more in comon with Irwin Allen's Lost In Space tv series of the mid 1960s since Star Trek served little more than a political platform for Gene Roddenberry's extreme radical liberal views.

Some might think it's a waste of time to read a book about a television show that one never saw. But, although I never saw an episode of "Space Patrol" (it had gone off the air before I was five years old), this is one of the best books I've read in years. A 20-year labor-of-love, it clearly reflects the author's interest and dedication to the subject. She managed to interview virtually all of the surviving cast and production crew members, and their anecdotes bring the story of this live-action television series from the early 1950s to life. It's packed with details about the characters, the performers, the production challenges, the sets, the special effects and the marketing of spin-off toys. Even better, it examines the positive effects that "Space Patrol" had on children of the time, some of whom, inspired by the show, grew up to be NASA engineers, "rocket scientists" and astronauts. Back in the days of clear-cut moral values and before political correctness reared its ugly head, the "Space Patrol" crew served as excellent role models for the first of the baby-boomers. Reading this book will transport anyone who grew up in that era back to a simpler time when the world was a more pleasant place to live and when there were well-defined good guys and bad guys. It's a great read about a fascinating subject--highly recommended.

This is a very nice book for those of us who grew up watching Space Patrol. Well written - information on the show, its production, the cast as well as the products that you could get by sending in 'box tops', etc.

Wonderful photos of the cast, as well as models of the sets/rockets and props. A chronological listing of the TV shows as well as the Radio ones. Very nice addition to a collection of information on Science Fiction on the airwaves.

Bassior's book is an intimate slice of history. On the surface, it may seem trivial to examine the story of a hit TV show from half a century ago, but in her two decades of unrelenting research, the result of Jean-Noel Bassior's dilligence (while maintaining her career as a top-level journalist) is a book that set out to document an ephemeral pop culture phenomenon, and became a supremely positive inspiration to a generation who went on to live lives by a sincere code of ethics, and some of whom made Neil Armstrong's "small step" possible. Inside the story, the star of the show, Commander Corry turns out to be actor Ed Kemmer, a bona fide World War Two hero.

In short, this book is a unique, intimate look at a pop culture phenomenon, and the remarkable people who made it happen.

At first I thought that the price of the book was excessive, however, upon deciding to spend the money I feel it was well spent. If you, like me, grew up with early television this book will take you back to a time when the world was simplier and TV was a miracle.

The author of "Space Patrol: Missions of Daring in the Name of Early Television" has taken a long and loving look at one of the best Sci Fi programs of the 1950's. The information gathered is informative, refresing, and above all (to my knowledge) never before put in print. The interviews with former cast members is a delight, and the behind the scenes look gives you and idea of how the then infact television industry operated.

I recommend spending the $49.00 and take a trip back in time and re-live your youth with Buzz Corey, Cadet Happy, Carol Carlyle, Major Robinson, and Tonga... its worth it.

When I was a 5th grader, back around 1982, I had a privilege of having this crazy man wearing one red sock and one yellow sock coming into my class and explain to us kids that if you could travel faster than light and escape the light cone it might be possible to be in two places at the same time. He went on to explain that some things like electrons can make a quantum leap, moving from one space to another without traveling in the space in between. Afterward, I peppered him with questions and ask how I could learn more. He said he had a book called Space Time and Beyond and that he thought I would understand it. I begged my parents to take me to the science museum so I could get a copy. I read it until it fell apart, taped it back together, and read it somemore.

That man was Fred Wolf. Thus began a lifetime of exploration. He was the Mr Electrico to my young Ray Bradbury. The book has long disappeared sometime in the past decades. It is high time for a replacement.

Why only four stars? For the adult, there are better more detailed books. For the child, I don't think you can force it on any Tom, Dick, or Sarah. It should sit on an upper shelf as a hidden treat, awaiting to be discovered by curious child.

This seemingly light and trivial book covers some extremely heavy and profound concepts. In fact, it is amazing how well a few pictures, diagrams, and cartoons can clarify concepts better than chapters of dense text from more "scholarly" sources. Of course, if the pictures don't do it for you, there is the excellent commentary by Fred Allen Wolf, as well as, an extensive bibliography for further reading.

I've lost track of how many times I've read this little book since it first started to crack open my narrow Newtonian mind-set back in the '80's. It is an especially good book to read just before going to sleep- the subconscious loves to process this level of material. Here is the best introduction to not only the probably structure of the universe of space-time, but to what lies beyond it. You get very interesting speculations on the nature of paranormal phenomena, reincarnation, the nature of archetypes and the mythological level of perception, survival after death- all of which conventional "science" choses to reject or ignore.

I especially enjoyed the discussion of how quantum waves can affect all levels of existance simultaneously at different scales of organization from sub-atomic, to the natural world of normal perception, to the human mind, to the stellar and galactic level. It adds new significance to the ancient maxim, "As above, so below." This is especially true when you consider that human consciousness helps function as a co-creator of the perceived material world ( along with our higher Selves beyond space-time.) In fact, the purpose of existance seems to be to reunite ourselves with ourselves so that all of creation may become fully aware of itself in harmony.

Yeah, I know it sounds pretty "hippy-dippy", that is it does until you begin to seriously contemplate the true nature of things....

you're stupid if you don't snap this one up; enough said.

I have read Space-Time and Beyond many times. At first I re-read it to see if there was something I missed in the first reading. Two things you will notice when reading this book.

First: It was a collaboration between a physicist and a layman.
Second: The appendix is the meat of the book.

First, the reader will read a comic book like explanation of mysticism and psychic phenomena. These are the speculative portion of the book. The appendix then verifies these odd occurences through reference to Natural phenomena,at the sub-atomic level. The speculative part is fascinating and very imaginative, but for me now, in Wolf and Toben's vision I see a model of the universe mapped in the macrocosm as extrasensory reality and realized in the microcosm as quantum physics. A visual mnemonic device which the young physicist can utilize to determine the direction of his research based on his own intuition and not that of his mentor.

Thank you Pam, Frank, Colonel J, Dr A, Harjit, Derrick, Shlomo, Dr B, Dan, Jeff, Trappuzzano et. al.

This book of physics/metaphysics is clear enough for the layman, very suitable for a dabbler, and interesting enough for the expert. The cartoons cutely explain theories of the universe and consciousness, so that by the time you reach the commentary, you "get it". The deliberate splitting of the book into first cartoons and then commentary stimulates both hemispheres of the brain.

Most everyone has seen the movie. I liked them both equally. Course I like Sci-Fi.

I became interested in the original novel after I watched the movie and found the story to be captivating. It is the tale of a soldier and his view of what it takes to be a Citizen and the entailing responsibilities. It is easy to read and the science-fiction premise makes the story attractive to a wider range of readers.

I first read Starship Troopers probably about 44 years ago. Since that time I have read probably thousands of Science Fiction Books, and while I have read some really good ones over the years, I keep coming back to Starship Troopers over and over again. There isn't a heck of a lot of Science, but there is Robert Heinlein's acidic sense of humor mixed in with a moral lesson and an incredibly captivating yarn. Regardless whether you are an adolescent or approaching the "golden years", this is a good read. Like most of Heinleins novels, you can live in this one for a day or so. Great escape, great entertainment, with none of the ever-present filth that pervades much entertainment media today. Read it, and enjoy it.

I first read this novel my junior year in High School, and it has remained one of my favorite novels ever since. Some have said that this book makes light of fascism, but this couldn't be further from the truth...

In the far future mankind is under the rule of the Federal Government, where before you can vote you must serve the government in some capacity. Usually this is done via a hitch in the military.

Rico enlists in the Mobile Infantry, fighting the enemies of mankind in a suit of super powered armor. After surviving his training he goes to war against a race of deadly insects bent on the extermination of mankind.

When Heinlein first penned this work in response to a call by some politicians to unilaterally disarm the United States, I doubt if he thought it would become one of his best known and most controversial works, a work which continues to have steady sales and whose influence on the science-fiction field has been enormous.

It's a simple story, one of the growth of Juan Rico from boy to man, as he enlists in the military of the future, and learns just what duty and responsibility mean, what his own capabilities are, and just what he wants out of life.

What is controversial about this book is the philosophy that suffuses it, is in fact the heart of this book, as Heinlein posits a future where, in order to vote or hold political office, you must prove your willingness to support and defend the society through either military service or service in one of the non-combatant auxiliary services. As part and parcel of this idea, no one can be refused entry into these services, even if blind or paralyzed, so political franchise is available to anyone who so desires (as opposed to some of the limitations that have been put on the voting franchise by various states at various times - and remember that this book was written in 1959, long before the Voting Rights Act of 1965). Heinlein further posits that such a society, even though the people who hold office were no better, smarter, or otherwise more qualified than our current leaders, would be a more stable society than our current one because their authority is balanced by their proven sense of responsibility and duty towards that society, a point that is certainly debatable, but in the absence of any real-world society so structured, must remain a conjecture.

Right alongside this idea are statements that rights must be earned (a critical failure of our current society is the inculcated belief that people have these rights just because they exist - that they are `owed' things without having to make any effort of their own), that correct moral attitudes are not inherent but must be taught (and a lack of corporal punishment in the early developing years does not help in this education), that war is a political statement whose level of violence must be geared towards what the political goal is, that the dictum that `violence never solves anything' is hogwash, that communism is based on faulty premises, and a whole host of other such ideas.

Now quite a few people have labeled this book as `fascist' because of this military service requirement, when it is no such thing (just look up the definition of fascist). Heinlein does glorify the military to some degree, but he also shows (often by counter-example) just how screwed up the military can be. And far from robotic adherence to commands, he clearly indicates that military people should question orders they think are suspect (at the right time and place - not while the bullets are whizzing over your head). There is a well-established court system, that like ours is pretty much insulated from political influence, and a political election process that is far away from any fascist government organization.

His depiction of boot camp and later military operations is excellent, comparable to similar descriptions in things like Leon Uris' Battle Cry. Rico is very well portrayed, a man that is very easy to empathize with and understand his thought processes. The plot seems to ramble a bit, as the story is not really about the Bug war, but about Rico's development. Once you understand this, it is very logical, coherent, and often exciting. The philosophy is presented with anecdotes, analogies, and concrete examples that make it easy to understand and far from being just `dry lecture', though perhaps that is the only real flaw with this book, as there is perhaps just too much of this `telling', rather than `showing'. But in general this is extremely readable, with Heinlein's typical unforced, near-folksy prose and clear thought processes.

This book has been, at various times, on the recommended reading list of all of our military service academies. I would go further, and recommend that this book be added to the list of `required reading' that our high school students are subject to. Whether you agree with ideas of this book or not, at the very least this book will make you think, and that's not a bad thing for students to learn how to do.

--Reviewed by Patrick Shepherd (hyperpat)

This book, along with Jim Palmer's Divine Nobodies, delivered me from a year-long broken heart caused by my church. Thank God for people like Jim who share their story in hopes of helping others realize that God exists outside of organized religion. Since reading this book I have become more aware of God's unconditional love and his powerful presence in everything around me. From now on I too will be using the "freedom filter". It works!

Jim Palmer has had a fascinating spiritual journal. Though his resume includes working in pastoral ministry at Willow Creek Community Church and pioneering an emerging church in Nashville, Tennessee, Palmer has found his own faith grow wildly by stepping outside the confines of traditional religion and experiencing the fullness of God in everyday life. WIDE OPEN SPACES is the follow-up to his debut, DIVINE NOBODIES, and invites readers to look for a deeper spirituality beyond the status-quo. Palmer believes that the kingdom of God that includes love, peace and freedom is awaiting every follower of Jesus who will open his eyes and hear what God wants to do.

Each chapter of WIDE OPEN SPACES takes a different snapshot of Palmer's spiritual journey and ideas. The chapter titles play on pop culture phrases and references such as "The Devil Wears Levis 501 Jeans" and "Humankind is from Mars, God is from Venus." The subtitles, though, more clearly identify the purpose of each chapter-length essay. They ask thought-provoking questions such as "Does It Matter If We Can't Do It?" "Is the Reality of Evil an Inconvenient Truth?" and "Can We Trust Our Gut?" Along the way, readers get insights into Palmer's thought process, background and life.

Though well written throughout, the best chapter of the book is also the first, "My God Can Whup Your God! Is God a Belief System?" Palmer writes, "One of the most freeing discoveries these past few years in my relationship with God (and it's still sinking in) is that God is not a belief system or a fixed set of theological propositions. On the one hand, it seems patently obvious that a list of claims about God can't actually be God himself. There isn't a lockbox at the center of the universe containing a divine computer program and doctrinal code. Hopefully we've all realized that THE HITCHHIKER'S GUIDE TO THE GALAXY is fiction and that the number forty-two doesn't answer anything of ultimate significance."

Despite such realizations, Palmer points out that for years Christianity was thought of as a well-defined set of propositions and practices. As a result, he spent many years treating his belief system as his savior. While important, solid doctrine is not the basis for salvation; instead, it's a relationship with Christ. Palmer shares quite transparently that for years his sense of security and comfort came from being right about God. Now he finds his security and comfort in knowing God and discovering His compassion, goodness, favor, forgiveness, beauty, truth and love. As demonstrated throughout the book, he finds it in more places than you can imagine.

WIDE OPEN SPACES is a well-written book that contributes to the emerging conversation on where the church has been as well as where it is going and what that journey looks like in one little Christ-follower's life. It is recommended to people who are ready to color outside the lines of traditional faith and delve into a deeper relationship with Christ.

--- Reviewed by Margaret Oines

I found this book to be incredibly amazing and thought provoking. I am currently reading Palmer's first book "Divine Nobodies" and i would recommend that as well. it really struck a chord with me and everyone should think about picking it up!

Palmer's former life as an executive pastor is a little bit fresh, making his outline of a new kind of orthopraxy both refreshingly freedom-focused and depressingly churchy in its expression. Still, Palmer is vulnerable (and cautious not to overstay his welcome) in sharing his changed perspective on Christ and Christ's message. The result is a challenge to orthodoxy that almost sings (especially his careful explication of American culture's sky-god). If you're fed up with traditional church, read this book.

I am likely one of a few who never read Divine Nobodies. I was lured to this book by the emphatic reviews and perspectives offered by the reviews both professional and the ones on Amazon. I was also enticed by the book McLaren claimes is by the NEW Don Miller (I pray for whatever happened to the last one).

Jim offers a refreshing perspective for those tired of church. This goes for those from everything from Traditional to Mega to Emerging church. Jim redefines church for the past couple of generations that have been stifled by the institutional merchants of religion that have occupied the leadership of most churches.

Jim is not peddling some new model. He is modeling however a life led by daily communion with the Spirit of God. It is a connection that is often preached, but rarely exhibited in the institutional church. Our centuries of reliance upon leadership to identify where God is at work has left us blind to the Kingdom that God is building all around us. Jim challenges us to open our eyes, remove the lens of the modern faith, and to follow the model of Christ with reckless abandonment. Stop going to a church and start behaving like a little Christ. Stop being defined by a faith that revolves around your thoughts about Christ, and redefine others perspective of those that follow Jesus by showing love. Stop trying to proselytize through confrontation, and put your arm around the shoulder of a stranger. Jim's approach to faith is a breath of fresh air. Every page and story brings a better perspective of a life lived in connection to a living God.

As a warning to some, Jim does bring to the table some perspectives that are seeming Eastern at times. They may be difficult to buy. Oddly enough, I do not believe he cares if you buy them. Ponder on them and grind them out. Digging tough these deep and hugely consequential thoughts will greatly add to your faith.

Now go and love.

Part of a series, this novel is about the planet Kevarzangia Two, and its water-breathing inhabitants.

The Hsktskt slavers have been pushed out of the quadrant, so the four sentient races, who call themselves the Allied League of Worlds, meet on K-2 for a peace conference. The participants, two air-breathing races and two water-breathing races, don't particularly like each other. When an ambassador's shuttle is attacked prior to the conference, Sublieutenant Burn mu Znora stops the attack and rescues the ambassador's daughter, Liana (some younger 'Zangians, like Burn, have been surgically altered to be able to survive in the air for hours at a time). Having drawn the pleasurable duty of guarding Liana during the conference, Burn realizes that she knows a lot more than she is letting on, and that someone wants this conference to fail.

Meantime, the 'Zangians have a natural enemy called a mogshrike. Think of a creature bigger than a great white shark, with a lot more teeth and a much more nasty disposition. The mogshrikes have been moving into warmer and shallower water, where the 'Zangians live. They are defenseless against the mogshrikes, so the radical idea is considered of catching one to study. Dair, an elderly 'Zangian, is totally against the idea, but Teresa, his Terran mate, agrees to participate. The battle of wills gets to the point where Dair tells Teresa that they are no longer mated. A baby mogshrike is captured, and it is discovered that they have been doing some pretty radical evolving.

This is a fine piece of writing. It's got good world building, the characters are very well done, and it's a first-rate story. As with any series, reading previous books will help, but this does a really good job of standing on its own.

I find this second book in this series to be better written and more adult that the first book. What a pleasant surprise. I enjoyed the story greatly.

Ok, I've got to say this right from the start: I loved this book, I love this series, and I think Ms. Viehl is a fantastic writer. Ever since I picked up the first book I read from this author, Blade Dancer (Excellent!!), I've been hooked. I am always so disappointed when I finish each novel as it means there's no more to read and I have to wait for the next installment. Ms. Viehl has such a rich imagination and a fertile writing style. If you're a fan of the sci-fi, space stories, this is a wonderful series to add to your collection. Give it a try and I think you'd be hard pressed to be disappointed. Please keep them coming Ms. Viehl!

I really liked that this book tied some ends together from the StarDoc series. It also finishes out "Biorescue" by continuing that story line. I had alot of trouble putting it down.

Afterburn by S.L. Viehl continues with the same quality of her Star Doc series of books. It is set in the same universe with the same aliens and revolves around a colony on a planet where intelligent life developed in the water. Most of the 'Zangians remain in the water, but some have undergone modification to allow themselves to be in the air for a short time.

This is a busy book with several plot threads intertwining, but the main plot centers around an interplanetary conference being held to discuss the possibilities for three other alien species, the Ninrana, Skartesh and the Ylidii.

Viehl deftly weaves the differing customs and needs of the various aliens as they all jostle for position and strive to get along, in some cases, or try to disrupt things in other cases. Sometimes it is a bit tough to keep track of all the different characters-- a list at the beginning of the book would have been helpful, however, once everything was sorted out in my own mind, I very much enjoyed the book. The ending was quite satisfactory, with a hint of more to come.