The Growth Mindset in Orbit
One of the most compelling parts of Endurance isn't the spaceflight itself, but Kelly’s backstory. He describes himself as a kid who couldn't pay attention in class, a C-student who seemed unlikely to ever land a job at NASA. His transformation into a high-performing pilot and astronaut is a perfect real-world example of what happens when a kid finds their 'why.' For parents of kids who struggle with the traditional school structure, this narrative is gold.
The Physicality of Space
Kelly doesn't hold back on the physical reality of living on the ISS. We often see the floating videos and think it looks fun, but Kelly describes the constant 'space fog' in the brain, the way your feet become as soft as a baby's because you never walk, and the agonizing pain of your skin readjusting to clothes and gravity when you return. It’s a grounded (pun intended) take on science that makes the NASA Twin Study feel personal rather than clinical.
Global Cooperation
In a world that feels increasingly divided, the International Space Station remains a rare example of humans actually getting it right. Kelly’s relationships with his Russian cosmonaut counterparts are a highlight. They share food, they share risks, and they share a perspective on the planet that transcends national lines. It’s a subtle but powerful lesson in diplomacy and shared humanity.
The teen-sized edition: Endurance, Young Readers Edition: My Year in Space and How I Got There is the official young readers adaptation of this book (ages 9–99) — same core ideas, shorter and gentler in the telling. The right handoff for a curious kid who isn't ready for the original.
