The man who went to the far side of the moon

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Raincoast books sent this interesting book to review called “the man who went to the far side of the moon“.   This is the story of Apollo 13 Astronaut Michael Collins.  This is a neat book that will wonderfully supplement a study on outer space, or a deeper look into Apollo 11.

From the Cover:

Everyone knows the story of the first astronauts to step foot on the moon.  What about the astronaut who manned the spaceship orbiting the moon 14 times alone in space while the others walked? ….. This lauded book describes what Michael Collins did, saw, and thought about during his journey.  It tells the larger story of how the astronauts prepared for their historic space flight, what they brought with them and what they left behind. Reminiscent of a scrapbook and featuring drawings as well as photos taken both in space and on Earth.  This is a book for anyone who has ever looked at the moon and wondered what it would be like to see it up close.

What you Get:

Fascination!  🙂

Seriously though, this was an easy read on a quiet Friday night as I waited for my hubby to get home from work.  Filled with photographs, sketches, and diary entries to tell the story.  The focus was on Collins as he orbited the moon in solitude while his companions became the superstars. 

The main text was in a rather small font which made it really easy to tell apart from the more explanatory text that accompanied many of the photos. 

I loved how interspersed among the stories were images of journal entries and duties he needed to attend.

1 am alone now, truly alone. and absolutely isolated from any known life. I am it. Michael Collins Click To Tweet

All the photos brought the story to life, especially how they were combined with journal entries. All the trivia would be of solid interest to space minded readers.

My Thoughts:

If you have any interest in going to the moon and its heroes, get this book.  It was such an interesting book into a man that most pay no attention to.  Why worry about a man who was only the support staff?

A thoroughly enjoyable read filled with tons of information about the Apollo 11 mission and vehicle, the duties expected and Mr. Collins’ thought while isolated in Apollo 11.  

Good Book.

The man who went to the far side of the moon. 
Bea Uusma Schyffert
Chronicle Kids
Trade Paperback, 80 pages, 
Biography, Space, Astronomy, Outer Space, Moon, Astronaut
Reviewed for Raincoast Books. 

Another book about Michael Collins that I reviewed was called “I love you, Michael Collins”.   You can find that here.   Other books on space “mission to Pluto”. I remember a great study we did on the moon from Amanda Bennett.