Lost in Outer Space: The Incredible Journey of Apollo 13

Gr 3–7—"Houston, we have a problem" is an iconic movie line to most people, and a variation on that very sentence was uttered during the actual Apollo 13 mission. The drama, instigated by a defective thermostat that caused an explosion and oxygen leak, was mirrored back on Earth. Barbara Lovell, the daughter of astronaut Jim Lovell (the mission commander), was aware that her father's job was dangerous; however, during the Apollo 13 mission, she realized something particularly terrible was happening. Mission control in Houston immediately knew the situation was serious and scrambled to help Apollo 13. The safe return of all on board is no secret, but the full story of their trip and how those in space and on land became heroes is a thrilling one, full of heroism and suspense. The author's recounting of the mission is detailed and gives equal coverage to the astronauts, the NASA engineers, and the families. The use of teen Barbara Lovell as a character for readers to identify with is effective and makes the story relatable. Technical language is not absent, but space concepts and tools are explained thoroughly in a manner that even reluctant readers will find accessible.