To Space and Back

Reach for this book when your child starts asking the 'how' and 'why' of the impossible, or when they need to see that big dreams are built on practical, everyday teamwork. This first-person account by Sally Ride demystifies the experience of space travel by focusing on the fascinating, relatable details of life in orbit, from how astronauts eat and sleep to how they brush their teeth in zero gravity. It is an invitation to wonder that grounds high-stakes science in human experience. Beyond the technical marvels, the book highlights themes of quiet confidence and the essential nature of collaboration. Ride's tone is accessible and encouraging for children aged 8 to 12, making the vastness of space feel within reach. It serves as an excellent tool for providing representation of women in STEM while fostering a deep sense of curiosity about the physical world and our place within it.