ATMOSPHERE by Taylor Jenkins Reid
Atmosphere (2025) is a captivating historical fiction novel set during NASA’s Space Shuttle program in the 1980s. Although Reid incorporates real historical challenges faced by female astronauts, like those similar to Sally Ride’s experiences, the main character, Joan Goodwin, and her specific story is fictional.
Joan had been intrigued with the stars and space since her childhood. When they widened the search for astronauts to include women, she allowed herself to imagine her dreams becoming a reality. In 1980, Joan Goodwin, an astrophysics professor was selected from a pool of thousands to participate in the Space Training Program and entered with hopes of becoming one of the first female astronauts.
Joan’s journey involved balancing the intense pressure of high-stakes work, family demands, and a forbidden romance with fellow astronaut Vanessa. A complicated relationship with her sister is balanced by the one with her beloved niece, which at times becomes a lifeline. While among the candidates, new relationships are navigated along with high work demands fueling competition: together creating a fast-paced emotionally soaring story. Multiple themes emerge throughout this piece including sexism in male-dominated science, ambition, sacrifice, and ultimately self-discovery.
The author’s extensive research- including on-site visits and consultation with former NASA staff- lends a high degree of authenticity to the story. The narrative expertly weaves together emotional depth and personal backstories of supporting characters, allowing readers to live alongside Joan as she navigates friendships and training in the 1980s NASA scene.
Taylor Jenkins Reid lives in Los Angeles and has many successful books which have been chosen by Reese’s Book Club, Read with Jenna, GMA Book Club, Indie Next, Best of Amazon, and Book of the Month. In addition, her novel, Daisy Jones and The Six, is a limited series on Amazon Prime. Be sure to check out all her work including another one I enjoyed…The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo @ https://taylorjenkinsreid.com/ .