"We are used to celebrating heroes who have achieved great things. This book helps us to realize that we should also celebrate those unsung heroes who continue to strive toward great things even if they are not able to reach their initial goals."—James R. Zimbelman, Quest
“An overdue and moving account of the almost-astronauts, a group of extraordinary people who came tantalizingly close to leaving Earth and seeing our planet from orbit. An important contribution to the history of human space exploration.”—Robert Pearlman, space historian and editor of collectSPACE.com
“Have you ever read a book that is so wonderful you tell everyone he or she must read it? This is just such a book, one that is at times fascinating, revealing, and inspirational. I found myself becoming emotionally involved in the real-life stories and dramas of these truly amazing men and women. Definitely a book to read and treasure.”—Dee O’Hara, nurse to the first astronauts
“My father, Ted Freeman, a newly appointed astronaut, died in an accident only one year into living his dream of flying to the moon. Colin Burgess told my father’s story in his wonderful book, Fallen Astronauts, and this latest, similarly magnificent book explores the lives and achievements of other individuals who also lost that rare chance of venturing into the mysteries and wonders of space. Another great book by an outstanding author.”—Faith (Freeman) Johnson, daughter of Capt. Theodore Cordy Freeman, USAF, NASA astronaut