I've been trying to find a very similar book I've read in the past about the moon, which is almost identical: promises science and speculation and instead delivers cultural references. The other was mostly pop culture and this one is slightly more high-brow but it's still not what I'm interested in.

The author has some beef with Musk, Bezos and presumably anyone else who doesn't share his politics. I hate it that authors nowadays feels like I give a damn about their politics or that it's relevant to tell me how they feel. Maybe you should talk to a friend, not put it in a book? Write a newspaper column? ( )

An inclusive look at the Moon, investigating everything from its phases to its size and appearance, to its orbit, surface, and trajectories. Continuing, the author weaves together stories of visits, exposure, and imaginative tales penned by science fiction writers.

There have been instances of lunar meteorites found on Earth, bits of ejecta blasted from the Moon by impacts strong enough to create craters a few miles in diameter. And a recent examination of a lunar rock sample returned to Earth from the surface of the moon revealed an Earth fragment embedded in the rock. Clearly, there is a strong connection between the planet and its lone satellite.

From the days of the early astronomers to the future awaiting mankind, “Moon” explores the possibility of using the Moon as a stepping-off point for space exploration. As technology advances, new ideas meet old dreams and now, half a century since the Apollo astronauts walked on the lunar surface, NASA is once again planning a return to the moon. Has short-sightedness kept mankind away from the moon for too long? And what will new explorers find when they return?

“The Moon” includes sources and suggestions for further reading, references, and lunar illustrations. Particularly relevant as the fiftieth anniversary of the Apollo 11 lunar landing approaches, readers are sure to find much to appreciate in this absorbing narrative.

Highly recommended. ( )