A Novel Morning Book Club: Atmosphere by Taylor Jenkins Reid

Join us on the fourth Monday of each month to discuss this month's selection. Our group reads an eclectic mix of popular fiction with a wide range of genres and authors. New members are always welcome!

Atmosphere by Taylor Jenkins Reid

Joan Goodwin has always been obsessed with space, which is why she became an astrophysics professor at Rice University. But then, something happens that she's only dreamed about—NASA announces that it's looking for female scientists to join the space program. Joan is accepted on her second try, and in 1980, she begins training with a group of male and female candidates who, while all brilliant, have a wide range of personalities. Some of the men are sexist and spend most of their time cracking offensive jokes, but Joan finds a friend in kind-hearted pilot Hank Redmond, who gives her plenty of opportunities to learn. Joan finds both camaraderie and competition among the women—there’s determined Lydia Danes, who embodies the “I’m not here to make friends” ethos, and the more supportive Vanessa Ford, who quickly becomes one of Joan's most trusted allies. As the group trains together, they begin to feel like a family—and as Joan grows closer to Vanessa, she realizes that life on Earth may contain just as many wonders as the cosmos. The story cuts back and forth between a disaster in 1984 and the story of Joan's journey through the space program. (Kirkus)

Check out an e-book or e-audiobook in Libby/Overdrive and/or Hoopla, or stop by the Adult Services Desk on the second floor to pick up a copy (quantities are limited). Questions? Email RSVP@orlandparklibrary.org or call 708-428-5150 for more information.