Why Who Owns the Moon? is a really timely book!
Our Moon has a powerful allure. Not only do we see it almost every night, but it also pulls our ocean’s tides and inspires our stories, music, and art.
In 1962, President John F. Kennedy challenged Americans to land humans on the Moon within a decade. Working feverishly, brilliant engineers and scientists at NASA met the president’s goal. By 1972, twelve intrepid Americans had walked on the surface of the Moon. Then, lunar landings came to an end so the country could focus on other missions, including the International Space Station.
Now, the US is planning to return to the Moon. And we are not alone in our ambitions. Several countries as well as some private companies are engaged in the quest.
What will happen when Earthlings from different countries meet on the lunar surface? How will we get along? What guidelines do we need to ensure harmony, cooperation, and shared scientific knowledge that will benefit everyone?
Science writer extraordinaire Jennifer Swanson and I discuss the science and technology of space travel, weaving in related issues of law, history, and policy.
Not convinced? Listen to an excerpt here!
Who Owns the Moon? has celestial bodies (aka, stars!)
- An NSTA/CBC Best STEM Book of 2025!
- A YALSA Quick Pick for Reluctant Readers!
- A Chicago Public Library Best Teen Nonfiction 2025!
- CCBC Choice!
- ⭐️”Informative, accessible, and compelling.” Kirkus starred review
- ⭐️“Timely and informative.” Booklist starred review AND Editors’ Choice 2025!
- “A highly recommended addition to all YA nonfiction collections.” School Library Journal
- Junior Library Guild Gold Standard Selection
- “Accessible and thought-provoking, this account encourages young people to consider how they might contribute to space exploration.” CCBC
- CBC Notable Social Studies Book
- “If you are interested in space or find yourself explaining complex space issues to your friends and family, buy this book! It is an easily readable explanation of current space issues for all ages. Author Cynthia Levinson did an incredible job of making complex issues easy to understand.” Dr. Ruth Stilwell, Executive Director, Aerospace Policy Solutions
Spoiler alert! Want to know who owns the Moon? Watch me explain here.
Dare I say that presentations are, um, a blast?!
You’re never too old to wear deelyboppers, especially while playing astronauts (from Zagzigia and Abaland!) on the Moon! Here are three of them getting ready for lauch.
