Two Sides of the Moon: Our Story of the Cold War Space Race Book

At first glance, this appears to be another story about the space race. But it really does go beyond the race itself, and uniquely focuses on the lives of two men directly involved, albeit on opposite sides of that race. The fact that the book was a joint memoir is fascinating to me. You get a real feel for how the space race was on both sides. Getting the Russian perspective from Leonov was very interesting to me, because so much of their history had to slowly reveal itself over time, where as the American achievements were broadcast for the entire world to see live. I learned about just how far ahead the Russians were, and how their Chief Designer was the true genius behind all of their early triumphs, and how his death set them back years. And the best part is that Leonov tells the Russian side beautifully. It gave me a true appreciation for what they accomplished, and how the cosmonauts were dedicated professionals, same as their American counterparts. The best part of David Scott's story is when we recalls in vivid detail his Apollo 15 mission, from training, to splash down and recovery. This is an exceptionally well written memoir, and it should be required reading for any fan of that part of human history. Much like a good novel, there is tragedy and triumph, with memorable characters, and exotic locations (the moon). At the end, you should be left with an admiration for both men, as well as the sudden urge to look up into the night sky at the moon.