Atmosphere

What did you think of the novel's structure, cutting back and forth between the disaster in 1984 and Joan's path to arrive there?

Atmosphere is scientifically and historically detailed. How did Reid make astrophysics and aerospace engineering accessible for readers without expertise in the subjects? What details did you find most interesting? Were there any aspects of astronaut life that you'd like to learn even more about?

In an interview, Reid described Joan as having "kind of a delayed coming of age story." While Joan is already an adult when the novel begins, in what ways does her journey mirror more traditional coming of age narratives?

Many of Taylor Jenkins Reid's stories feature women succeeding in male-dominated fields. What obstacles does Joan face in her quest for space? How does she overcome them?

The author, Taylor Jenkins Reid, recently came out as bisexual. What did you think of the way that she portrayed Joan's journey of embracing her queerness?

A theme of the book is having the courage to be fully yourself, to go after your own dreams and not to bend to societal pressure. In what ways is this struggle still relevant today, forty years after the novel is set?

Were you rooting for Joan and Vanessa? What made them a good couple?

In addition to the relationship between Joan and Vanessa, the novel highlights the camaraderie between the entire team of astronauts. Who was your favorite character among them? What are some moments between the team that stood out to you?

Let's talk about the ending. First off, did it make you cry (and how much)? How else did it make you feel?

The full title of the novel is Atmosphere: A Love Story.  What do you make of the subtitle, A Love Story?  Do you think it's only referring to Joan and Vanessa's love story, or something more?  

Have you read any other books by Taylor Jenkins Reid? If so, how did "Atmosphere" compare?

If given the opportunity, would you personally want to go to space? Why or why not?