SCIENCES

When the Heavens Went on Sale: The Misfits and Geniuses Racing To Put Space Within Reach

by Ashlee Vance
Ecco: HarperCollins. May 2023. 528p. ISBN 9780062998873. $35. SCI
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In 2017, Bloomberg Businessweek features writer Vance wrote the biography Elon Musk. In his latest work, the author focuses once again on the controversial tech giant and his companies. This time, however, the book also examines other companies that have impacted the tech industry—in a new space race driven by businesses with lesser-known names such as Astra and Firefly. A big portion of this well-researched and insightful book looks at Musk’s vision for the future. Details include the history and mission of his company SpaceX, which aims to make space travel more accessible and to enable human life on other planets. Vance also provides insight into Musk’s obsession with colonizing Mars and apparent tendency to be hyperbolic and to refuse to accept criticism or failure.

 

Correction: This review originally stated that the book included references to Mark Zuckerberg and Elon Musk’s childhood and marriages. This is incorrect. LJ regrets the error. 

VERDICT For readers interested in Musk or technology and innovation. This book will be an excellent addition to science or biography collections.
Reviewed by Jennifer Moore , Apr 01, 2023
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