The Challenger Space Shuttle Explosion

Children's Literature - Peg Glisson

Space exploration captures the imagination of young and old. This book from the "Code Red" series includes a brief look at the history of the space age, and then focuses on the excitement about the 1986 voyage of the shuttle Challenger, in which a teacher would venture into space for the first time. Weather concerns caused postponement of the launch and may have factored in the decision to launch on January 28 in spite of the cold temperatures. The explosion of the shuttle occurred just 73 seconds after launch. Like other books in the series, this examines what happened during the disaster. It also looks at its impact on future space travel. Some redesigns of the shuttle are discussed, but no mention is made of flights resuming or of the more recent shuttle disaster. Liberal use of photos, quotes, and fact boxes facilitate additional understanding of the disaster. Four of the shuttle's astronauts are profiled. A glossary, an index, and a list of suggested books and websites complete this highly appeal book. Reviewer: Peg Glisson