Racing the Moon is the fourth or fifth YA novel I've read in the last couple of years, more than I had read since I was YA myself. This was probably the least good of the few I've read, but was, nonetheless, a rather fun and interesting read. While many of its most important plot elements were improbable--to say the least--the book would appeal to youngsters and keep them reading.
The story describes two teens, an adoptive brother and sister, and their two passions, his for radios and radar and hers for space and space exploration. The setting is in the early days of the American space program when young people's interest in space was probably higher than it is today.
Their adventures allow them to meet rocket pioneer, Dr. Wernher von Braun whom they also encounter later when they steal their way into a secret location the government uses for rocket development. To a young reader unfamiliar with the background of America's space program, the meeting with von Braun would teach them a bit of important history while still keeping them entertained.
The book was really too much fun to put down and probably a lot better than a lot of books written fro adults that I could have read. However, had it been the first of my recent YA reads, I probably would not have picked any more, but as it is, I am still interested in occasionally enjoying the fiction written for young adults. As many have said, it is often the best stuff being written these days.
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Racing the Moon is the fourth or fifth YA novel I've read in the last couple of years, more than I had read since I was YA myself. This was probably the least good of the few I've read, but was, nonetheless, a rather fun and interesting read. While many of its most important plot elements were improbable--to say the least--the book would appeal to youngsters and keep them reading.
The story describes two teens, an adoptive brother and sister, and their two passions, his for radios and radar and hers for space and space exploration. The setting is in the early days of the American space program when young people's interest in space was probably higher than it is today.
Their adventures allow them to meet rocket pioneer, Dr. Wernher von Braun whom they also encounter later when they steal their way into a secret location the government uses for rocket development. To a young reader unfamiliar with the background of America's space program, the meeting with von Braun would teach them a bit of important history while still keeping them entertained.
The book was really too much fun to put down and probably a lot better than a lot of books written fro adults that I could have read. However, had it been the first of my recent YA reads, I probably would not have picked any more, but as it is, I am still interested in occasionally enjoying the fiction written for young adults. As many have said, it is often the best stuff being written these days.
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Poor characterization and pacing, and a very troubling justification for slave labor. Also, the John Smith plot feels forced. I wasn't terrible, but I wouldn't recommend it. ( )

There are quite a lot of wild antics in this book. I was taken aback at first for the lack of consequences for some of the more irresponsible actions of the characters. I was glad (as were the characters) when an caring adult finally took charge to help these kids toward their dreams. It is certainly a page turner. As a librarian I know that there are some kids that would really appreciate what this book has to say. I'm glad to have it to share with them. ( )