Wednesday, January 29, 2014

An Astronaut’s Guide to Life on Earth

Written by: Colonel Christ Hadfield

First line: The windows of a spaceship casually frame miracles.

Why you should read this book: This is literally the most inspirational thing I have seen in years: beginning with Hadfield’s decision, at age nine (immediately following the moon landing) to always make whatever choice an astronaut would make (despite his awareness that there was no such thing as a Canadian astronaut), the narrative follows Hadfield through his training and career, focusing primarily on his decision to always be prepared for everything, even the impossible, and to always take pride and pleasure in whatever activity he’s engaged in, no matter how difficult, boring, or disappointing it might be. Along the way, we’re treated to tantalizing views from space, little known details about an astronaut’s life and NASA’s inner workings, and Hadfield’s quirky, wide-eyed sense of humor and take on living life to its fullest. Simply an amazing story of an amazing life, told with grace and good will, which inspires readers to make the most of their existence by always working toward their goal without pinning any of their happiness on actually achieving it: love what you do, Hadfield says, and prepare for anything, and you can be as pleased with yourself as he sounds.


Why you shouldn’t read this book: You get motion sick just thinking about car rides.

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