What Are Books Like Wally Funk'S Race For Space?

Wally Funk’s memoir reminds me of 'Almost Astronauts' by Tanya Lee Stone, a YA book about the Mercury 13 that’s perfect for younger readers or anyone new to the topic. Stone’s writing is punchy and emotional, much like Funk’s. For a broader look at women in science, 'Headstrong' by Rachel Swaby profiles 52 brilliant women whose contributions were sidelined. Both books share Funk’s mission of setting the record straight.

If you’re looking for books with the same spirit as 'Race for Space,' I’d recommend 'Breaking the Chains of Gravity' by Amy Shira Teitel. It’s a deep dive into the pre-NASA era, full of untold stories about the people who made spaceflight possible. Teitel’s writing is accessible but packed with detail, much like Funk’s memoir. Another gem is 'Rise of the Rocket Girls' by Nathalia Holt, which chronicles the female mathematicians behind JPL’s early successes. Both books share that underdog vibe and celebrate unsung heroes.

For readers who adored 'Race for Space,' I’d suggest 'Carrying the Fire' by Michael Collins. It’s an astronaut’s firsthand account of the Apollo era, written with wit and humility. Collins’ voice is so engaging, and his stories—like Funk’s—highlight the quirks and challenges of space exploration. 'Shoot for the Moon' by James Donovan is another gripping read, covering the Apollo 11 mission with a novelist’s flair. These books all capture that same mix of adventure and introspection.

Wally Funk's 'Race for Space' is such an inspiring read, especially for anyone fascinated by aviation history and trailblazing women. Funk’s journey as one of the Mercury 13—women who underwent astronaut testing but were denied spaceflight—is both thrilling and infuriating. Her perseverance and passion for flying leap off the page. If you loved this, you might enjoy 'Hidden Figures' by Margot Lee Shetterly, which similarly highlights overlooked women in STEM. Another great pick is 'The Right Stuff' by Tom Wolfe, diving into the early days of NASA with that same mix of drama and heroism.

For something more personal, Mary Roach’s 'Packing for Mars' offers a humorous yet deeply researched look at the bizarre realities of space travel. Funk’s story also reminds me of 'Sally Ride: America’s First Woman in Space' by Lynn Sherr, which captures another pioneer’s struggles and triumphs. These books all share that blend of scientific curiosity and human resilience that makes 'Race for Space' so compelling.

Books like Wally Funk’s 'Race for Space' often focus on the intersection of personal grit and historical change. 'The Astronaut Wives Club' by Lily Koppel is a fun, gossipy take on the women behind the Apollo program, while 'Failure Is Not an Option' by Gene Kranz gives the ground-level perspective of Mission Control. Funk’s story fits right into this niche of space history that’s equal parts technical and deeply human.