Voyage

The NASA Trilogy, Book 1

By: Stephen Baxter

Narrated by: Kevin Kenerly

The space mission of a lifetime

An epic saga of America’s might-have-been, Voyage is a powerful, sweeping novel of how, if President Kennedy had lived, we could have sent a manned mission to Mars in the 1980s. Imaginatively created from the true lives and real events, Voyage returns to the geniuses of NASA and the excitement of the Saturn rocket and includes historical figures from Neil Armstrong to Ronald Reagan who are interwoven with unforgettable characters whose dreams mirror the promise of a young space program that held the world in thrall. There is: Dana, the Nazi camp survivor who achieves the dream of his hated masters; Gershon, the Vietnam fighter jock determined to be the first African American to land on another planet; and Natalie York, the brilliant geologist/astronaut who risks a career and love for the chance to run her fingers through the soil of another world.

©1996 by Stephen Baxter (P)2021 by Blackstone Publishing

A fine NASA related alternative history story

All the pieces are in place here for a wonderful series. This is the first part of what appears to be a well-researched alternative history of NASA and manned space travel, well performed by the seasoned Kevin Kenerly.

Like all alternative history novels, it takes some liberties with characters, timelines, etc., but it is a small quibble. Likewise, some of the characters are a bit predictable but, again, a small quibble. Nevertheless, if you are a fan of NASA history, I highly recommend this offering with references to real-world events.

To Mars on a budget

I have delved into numerous works by this particular author, consistently finding great enjoyment in each one. My passion for science fiction is particularly sparked by stories that explore the intricacies of space travel and its myriad possibilities. In this particular novel, an alternate history narrative unfolds, presenting historical figures in roles and scenarios that may surprise or delight readers. This creative twist on real events breathes life into the characters, imbuing them with a depth that reflects their extraordinary journeys. Naturally, as with any ensemble cast, I found myself more drawn to certain characters than others, which is a common occurrence in storytelling.

In "Voyage," Stephen Baxter masterfully imagines a world in which President John F. Kennedy survives and, as a result, America embarks on a remarkable journey to send a manned mission to Mars during the 1980s. The novel is grounded in genuine lives and actual events, weaving a richly detailed tapestry that celebrates the brilliance of NASA and captures the excitement surrounding the Saturn V rocket. Baxter skillfully interlaces historical figures, including icons like Neil Armstrong and Ronald Reagan, with unforgettable fictional characters who each embody the spirit and ambition of a nascent space program that captivated the global imagination.

The expansive narrative revolves around Gregory Dana, a survivor of Nazi persecution who ironically realizes the dreams imposed by his oppressors; Gershon, a courageous Vietnam fighter pilot determined to break barriers and become the first African American to land on another planet; and Natalie York, an exceptional geologist and astronaut who faces the crossroads of love and career, all for the opportunity to feel the soil of an alien world beneath her fingertips.

However, there were moments in the story that raised questions for me, particularly regarding the portrayal of scientific concepts. For instance, the understanding of radiation shielding appeared somewhat muddled, and there seemed to be a lack of comprehensive knowledge about space exploration during that time, a gap that arose from humanity's limited experience in the cosmos. Nonetheless, the characters made up for any scientific shortcomings with their unwavering enthusiasm and ambition to push beyond the confines of Earth.

The narration brought to life by Kevin Kenerly played a significant role in enriching the storytelling experience. His performances infused vitality into the narrative, although there were times when distinguishing which character was speaking could prove challenging for listeners. Despite this minor hurdle, Kenerly’s ability to convey the emotions and intricacies of the plot certainly enhanced my overall engagement with the story.

Alternate history with a trip to Mars

Stephen Baxter’s Voyage is the first installment in his NASA trilogy. Set in an alternate history universe, Kennedy was not assassinated and while crippled, he remains a strong space advocate and pushes for a manned mission to Mars. What transpires are the political and technical machinations necessary to accomplish the mission, especially the tension between manned versus unmanned missions. A few innovative approaches are employed after some serious setbacks with fatalities.

Baxter offers a realistic possible history that includes the tough decisions that are required to pull off a mission to Mars that is an order of magnitude beyond what Apollo accomplished. At the same time, he includes the political and social angles that force compromises and sometimes provide individual dis-appointments.

The narration is well done with good character distinction. Pacing is smooth.

just right

Imagining a history that might have been, this book balances technical ideas with human element very well.

Yorks journey was powerful!

The story of Yorks journey from adviser to astronaut was amazing. I cried twice listening to this book. A mist listen! Highly recommended.