This Kingdom of Dust

To imagine the stories behind great historical moments in history is a concept that seems to be having its moment. Or, rather, isn’t that how history has always been told – as a consideration? This story of the very famous astronauts of the great moon landing of 1969 and their families, in particular their wives, is timely given what very rich men do now for a chance to explore our galaxy. The title of this novel is perfectly astute.

There is a lot going on in this unique telling; certainly, the reasons we tell history and why are given a shake up here. David Dyer deftly explores this theme by imagining the consciousness of the astronauts – their (needed) egos, their fears and sacrifices. He turns his attention to their partners and looks at the strength of the women that stood by watching and supporting the two spacemen. He does this by pushing the narrative as far as he can and, in doing so, examines a nation holding their breath, the journalists chasing the story and the families anxiously watching on. Dyer twists the known facts while still ensuring the reader learns of the technical requirements, the heady political and journalistic aspirations of the time, and the emotional turmoil. Almost as a reward to the reader, he gives you the philosophical learnings of both those up there in space and those down on the ground looking upwards in appreciation.

This is an unusual and innovative novel, and it may displease those wanting an absolute or purist Apollo 11 story. Yet for other readers, like me, this story is a revelation. It is a careful deconstruction of what motivates us to look up and ultimately – and thankfully – to hope.