<DIV>A tremendous fascination and curiosity with space travel will be instilled in readers of this memoir by a former NASA astronaut. In a vivid recount of several events on board the space shuttles Endeavor and Columbia, the astronaut reflects on his life in space, emphasizing the routine aspects of the experience that earthbound people can relate to and appreciate. While his reflections intend to unravel the essence of living in space, they are also the starting point of a parallel tale that describes the author's perseverance in overcoming life's obstacles and becoming one of the select few to venture beyond the limits of Earth.<br></div>