THROUGH THE GLASS CEILING TO THE STARS The Story of the First American Woman to Command a Space Mission

Retired Air Force Colonel and former NASA commander Eileen Collins's distinction as the first female shuttle pilot is a springboard for listeners into the life of an inspiring individual. Molly Secours's straightforward, approachable narration aligns with Collins's forthright personality. The commander's memoir combines the formative challenges of her New York childhood and distinguished military career as a pilot and flight instructor with the guiding principles they inspired. Secours's adept pacing facilitates understanding and engagement with the technical aspects of aviation. This production is a valuable addition to the annals of space history, although the transition of the chapters gives scant pause from one to another. Collins's final flight, the first mission after the 2003 COLUMBIA tragedy, closes on a hopeful note for future generations. J.R.T. © AudioFile 2022, Portland, Maine [Published: MARCH 2022]