Rocket Men

Author Craig Nelson focuses on the rocket builders and the men who rode their inventions to the moon as he tells the story of the U.S. Space Program. Richard McGonagle sounds like he was there. His clear, slightly gruff voice sounds full of belief and pride in the program while hitting the information home. He's bemused as he talks about the celebrity status of the astronauts at the height of the space race and solemn as he tells of the risks and casualties. Nelson's account concentrates on the glory years, but takes listeners to the present and future as well. The anecdotes, brought alive through McGonagle's narration, make this an entertaining and emotional history. J.A.S. (c) AudioFile 2009, Portland, Maine