The Astronaut's Guide to Leaving the Planet - by Terry Virts (Paperback)

About the Book

"A kid's guide to leaving the planet from someone who's done it! Former astronaut Terry Virts guides readers through the practical elements of becoming an astronaut, along with the wonders (and challenges!) of space travel. With insider information on training, piloting a ship, and working in space, readers and aspiring astronauts will be inspired to start their own journey to the stars. This practical guide is full of valuable wisdom and insight that will guide the astronaut candidates of tomorrow!"--

Book Synopsis

In this exciting book, a former NASA astronaut inspires the next generation of space travelers with answers to all kids' questions on how people become astronauts, how they prepare for space travel, and what it's like to live and work in space.

A kid's guide to leaving the planet from someone who's done it! Former astronaut Terry Virts guides readers through the practical elements of becoming an astronaut, along with the wonders (and challenges!) of space travel. With insider information on training, piloting a ship, and working in space, readers and aspiring astronauts will be inspired to start their own journey to the stars. This practical guide is full of valuable wisdom and insight that will guide the astronaut candidates of tomorrow!

Review Quotes

*** 2024 Texas Library Association's Texas Topaz Nonfiction Reading List *** 2024 Children's Book Council's Teacher Favorites selection *** 2024 Nautilus Book Award Gold winner in Middle Grade Non-Fiction ***

"The Astronaut's Guide to Leaving the Planet is exactly the sort of book kids who love space will fall in love with.... an informative read that should appeal to space fanatics young and old."
--Cracking the Cover

"Paints a vibrant picture of life aboard the International Space Station.... Young space enthusiasts will enjoy this guide. Aspiring astronauts will treasure it."--TIME for Kids

Author Terry Virts "engages readers with more than a smattering of history, science, and pure delight."
--Upstate Parent

"A fun, fact-filled reflection of space-bound adventure."--Booklist, starred review

"With an eye to younger audiences with stars in their eyes, he describes space programs of the past and near future in clear, simple language and embeds pep talks about the importance of getting a good education and ignoring nay-sayers.... Finally, an astro-memoir for kids that really gets down to the nitty-gritty."--Kirkus Reviews, starred review

About the Author

Colonel Terry Virts earned a Bachelor of Science degree in mathematics from the United States Air Force Academy in 1989, and a master of aeronautical science degree in aeronautics from Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University. Selected by NASA in 2000, he was the pilot of STS-130 mission aboard Space Shuttle Endeavour. In March 2015, Virts assumed command of the International Space Station, and spent over 200 days on it. Virts is one of the stars (and photographers) of the IMAX film, A Beautiful Planet, released in April 2016. He is also the author of View from Above (National geographic, 2017). He lives near Houston.

This author is represented by the Hachette Speakers Bureau.