Who Owns the Moon? And Other Conundrums of Exploring and Using Space

by Cynthia Levinson, Jennifer Swanson

Today’s teens may travel to the Moon in their lifetimes. This primer on what to know for a future in space combines technology and science with law and policy for a fascinating look at a very timely subject.

For teens who are space fans, this book is loaded with fascinating facts, great stories, and new ways of thinking about the challenges of space. It covers topics on the science of space and developments in technology (e.g., satellites behaving like spacecraft), and it also considers the laws that have been drafted for space travel and space etiquette—the agreed upon norms of behavior that allow humans to explore without conflict.

The book discusses the problem of space debris, and the growth of space tourism. It provides details about the Artemis missions and plans for the Gateway space station, and so much more. It challenges young readers to think about the decisions that need to be made in the years ahead to ensure that space exploration remains an exhilarating and peaceful activity.

And the final chapter provides guidance on careers in the space industry—being an astronaut is only one of many exciting paths to pursue.

A Junior Library Guild Gold Standard Selection

Genres: Nonfiction, History, Science, Politics, Audiobook

208 pages, Kindle Edition

First published January 14, 2025

Reviews

[Stacie · Rating 5 out of 5]

I’m so impressed by this thorough and informative book, which covers space travel from the past, present, and into our future. This book, specifically written for middle-grade readers, is jam-packed with photos, interviews, and the answers to the questions kids are wondering about. Get this one for your space-loving kid.

To see a video review, check out:
https://www.sincerelystacie.com/2025/...

[YSBR · Rating 4 out of 5]

Who Owns The Moon centers space exploration in geopolitics at a time of tense international relations and the privatization of space. Despite the book’s heavy subject matter, Levinson and Swanson manage to bring content “down to earth” through a conversational tone and by starting each chapter with a moment in space history that sets up the chapter’s focus. The first half of the book provides a history of space exploration and its role in fueling the Cold War, as well as how modern diplomatic crises (such as the war in Ukraine) affect international cooperation.  Readers will learn that “Often governments may be at odds on the ground while their citizens remain friendly in space.” The second half of the book explores the involvement of private companies in space exploration and the lack of regulation and enforcement of space treaties, which could lead to problems as more countries and businesses lay claim to extraterrestrial territory.  QR codes, timelines, and sidebars provide both context and extension opportunities for readers, and a rich array of illustrations, diagrams, and primary sources convey both the wonder and complexity of space exploration. Link to complete review: https://ysbookreviews.wordpress.com/2...

[Erin Buhr]

I never considered who owns the moon or so many other issues and complexities about space travel before reading this book. Cynthia Levinson, author of FAULT LINES IN OUR CONSTITUTION, has written a thorough, fascinating, and deeply informative book for space fans. I would hand this to any space enthusiast in the 12 and up age range. It’s detailed and lengthy, but covers so much interesting ground. This nonfiction covers some basics (like the layers of the Earth’s atmosphere) and some history (like the first race into space), but it also leans into more modern space travel and issues that I haven’t found in other space books for MG and YA readers. From the international space station and anti-satellite weapons to space debris and the Artemis project that is heading back to space, I learned a lot about current space exploration. This is a great space book for a new generation of space enthusiasts, astronauts and scientists.

[Mary · Rating 4 out of 5]

There is a rather strong pro-capitalist bent to this book, which disturbed me. Well, look at the title! This is the only reason it did not merit five stars from me. It's well-researched, well-illustrated, and clearly written, and should appeal to older kids, teens, and even adults with any interest in the history and possible future of space exploration. Well done, and recommended for all libraries serving teens.

(One note: Space exploration was initially tied to the military. "Civilian" and "commercial" are two different things. I am in favor of civilian space exploration, but governemnts do it better than billionaires!)

[Lisa Doggett · Rating 5 out of 5]

Cynthia Levinson and Jennifer Swanson's new nonfiction book is absolutely excellent! I purchased it this weekend at our local indie bookstore, and I've been learning about space junk, the interational space station, how conflicts in or about space are resolved, and so much more. The book contains beautiful photos and explanatory drawings and maps. Highly recommended for older children and adults!

[Gloria Amescua · Rating 5 out of 5]

Who Owns the Moon? is such an amazing book! As an adult I learned so much that I didn't know about before. It left me with many questions and some possibilities. Young people will really connect with this book because it is the future they will live in. The visuals are also so interesting and a great part of this well-researched book. This book is a catalyst for much discussion about our world, current and future science, technology and human exploration into space.

[The Loco Librarian · Rating 4 out of 5]

I enjoyed the few chapters I read. Honestly, I’m just not a nonfiction reader. I struggle to keep my attention for reading facts and information that long. I highly recommend for nonfiction readers interested in the politics of space!

[Megan Eliason · Rating 5 out of 5]

Politics everywhere! Even in space… Great YA read!

[Cassie Mardis · Rating 4 out of 5]

I found this book to be interesting and have a lot of information packing into it but it easy to understand.

[Brandon · Rating 4 out of 5]

4⭐. Accessible and interesting! I should read more books for middle schoolers.