Sandler, Martin W. Apollo 8: The Mission That Changed Everything. Non-fiction. Candlewick, 09/2018. 160pp. $24.99. 978-0-7636-9489-0. OUTSTANDING. GRADES 6-12.
Without the advancements tested during the Apollo 8 mission, the Apollo 11 success of putting a person on the moon would not have happened, as described in this coffee table-style book. Sandler’s engaging text is not overly complicated but is clear, concise, and complete, using a narrative style that is factual without being dry and containing many quotations from those involved. The author also makes it clear that this Christmas week mission helped many Americans find something hopeful to focus on after the tragedies of 1968 (assassinations, riots, and the Vietnam War). The book design is also quite successful with large b&w and color photos, expansive pages of text with generous white space, and informative sidebars, giving the entire package an elegance. Back matter includes source notes, index, and bibliography.
Penny Peck, San Jose State Univ, iSchool