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Slaying Snakes in the Cockpit: Life Lessons from an Unlikely Astronaut
200 pages, Hardcover
Published July 14, 2026
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Displaying 1 - 3 of 3 reviews
July 27, 2026
I don't usually read biographies or autobiographies. I made an exception since I know Susan, and she has always been such an inspiration to me. So, while I may have some bias, this review is as honest as I can make it!
While I knew some of the stories and background included, I learned quite a bit more, which was fun!
Susan walks us through her journey to the stars, from childhood to present day and it's like sitting with a friend. Not stuffy at all!
While some parts are a bit technical and difficult to follow for those not familiar with aircrafts, the military, and such, Susan did a wonderful job of trying to simplify and compare things in more layman's terms. None of it was done in a condescending way either, everything came across as someone who genuinely wanted to share the amazing journey she went on!
It's a bit of a roller coaster at times when you read along with some of the struggles Susan had to fight through and overcome, but that is just who she is. Determined and persistent. As a woman, while we had different specific struggles, I also worked in a male dominated field and related to several of the events and discussions Susan went through.
While being an astronaut specifically may not be relatable, the meaning behind her entire journey overall, was.
Also, she may have depended on Fruit Loops, but my choice was always Frosted Flakes! (It makes sense if you read the book)
As any of my irl friends can tell you, I am always amazed and inspired by Susan. Every time I see her newest adventures, I always share with them the next amazing, inspiring, and out of left field thing she is doing or has done!
Anyway, 10/10 I recommend this book! It's a fairly quick read, and gives a good peek behind the curtain at some things that aren't generally common knowledge. Also, there are pictures, and a dog! (I love Bozo, glad he made a couple of appearances!)
While I knew some of the stories and background included, I learned quite a bit more, which was fun!
Susan walks us through her journey to the stars, from childhood to present day and it's like sitting with a friend. Not stuffy at all!
While some parts are a bit technical and difficult to follow for those not familiar with aircrafts, the military, and such, Susan did a wonderful job of trying to simplify and compare things in more layman's terms. None of it was done in a condescending way either, everything came across as someone who genuinely wanted to share the amazing journey she went on!
It's a bit of a roller coaster at times when you read along with some of the struggles Susan had to fight through and overcome, but that is just who she is. Determined and persistent. As a woman, while we had different specific struggles, I also worked in a male dominated field and related to several of the events and discussions Susan went through.
While being an astronaut specifically may not be relatable, the meaning behind her entire journey overall, was.
Also, she may have depended on Fruit Loops, but my choice was always Frosted Flakes! (It makes sense if you read the book)
As any of my irl friends can tell you, I am always amazed and inspired by Susan. Every time I see her newest adventures, I always share with them the next amazing, inspiring, and out of left field thing she is doing or has done!
Anyway, 10/10 I recommend this book! It's a fairly quick read, and gives a good peek behind the curtain at some things that aren't generally common knowledge. Also, there are pictures, and a dog! (I love Bozo, glad he made a couple of appearances!)
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July 9, 2026Great book, I highly recommend it! It is fun to travel along with Susan from her childhood, through the Navy, to NASA and beyond. Great summer read!
September 20, 2026
An excellent astronaut autobiography.
Displaying 1 - 3 of 3 reviews