Atmosphere

Taylor Jenkins Reid's novel "Atmosphere" is a captivating and emotionally rich narrative praised by Kristin Hannah as thrilling, heartbreaking, and uplifting. Andy Weir commends the book for its excellent research and a compelling conclusion, fondly noting its focus on NASA and the 1980s space missions. Set against the backdrop of the 1980s space shuttle program, "Atmosphere" explores the remarkable extents to which people go to pursue their dreams and experience love beyond limits.The story begins in the summer of 1980 when Joan Goodwin, an astrophysics professor, embarks on astronaut training at Houston’s Johnson Space Center. She joins an elite group, including Top Gun pilot Hank Redmond, mission specialists John Griffin and Lydia Danes, the amiable Donna Fitzgerald, and the intriguing aeronautical engineer Vanessa Ford. As they prepare for their maiden roles as astronauts, Joan discovers a newfound passion and love that challenge her previous understanding of her place in the universe. However, the course of events takes a dramatic turn during mission STS-LR9 in December 1984."Atmosphere," a testament to Reid's skill, transports readers to pivotal eras and locales, crafting intricate characters and weaving a passionate story of love's transformative power, set among the stars. Readers have shared their highly positive impressions, with many describing the book as incredibly touching, emotionally stirring, and Reid's best work yet.