An Astronaut's Guide to Life on Earth

By: Chris Hadfield

Narrated by: Chris Hadfield

Length: 8 hrs and 45 mins

Publisher's summary

As Commander of the International Space Station, Chris Hadfield captivated the world with stunning photos and commentary from space. Now, reading from his first book, Chris takes listeners deep into his years of training and space exploration to show how to make the impossible possible.

Chris Hadfield decided to become an astronaut after watching the Apollo moon landing with his family on Stag Island, Ontario, when he was nine years old, and it was impossible for Canadians to be astronauts. In 2013, he served as Commander of the International Space Station orbiting the Earth during a five-month mission. Fulfilling this lifelong dream required intense focus, natural ability and a singular commitment to "thinking like an astronaut."

In An Astronaut's Guide to Life on Earth, Chris gives us a rare insider's perspective on just what that kind of thinking involves, and how earthbound humans can use it to achieve success and happiness in their lives.

Astronaut training turns popular wisdom about how to be successful on its head. Instead of visualizing victory, astronauts prepare for the worst; always sweat the small stuff; and do care what others think. Chris shows how this unique education comes into play with dramatic anecdotes about going blind during a spacewalk, getting rid of a live snake while piloting a plane, and docking with space station Mir when laser tracking systems fail at the critical moment. Along the way, he shares exhilarating experiences, and challenges, from his 144 days on the ISS, and provides an unforgettable answer to his most-asked question: What's it really like in outer space?

With humour, humility and a profound optimism for the future of space exploration, An Astronaut's Guide to Life on Earth offers listeners not just the inspiring story of one man's journey to the ISS, but the opportunity to step into his space-boots and think like an astronaut - and renew their commitment to pursuing their own dreams, big or small.

PLEASE NOTE: When you purchase this title, the accompanying PDF will be available in your Audible Library along with the audio.

©2013 Chris Hadfield (P)2013 Random House Audio

Critic reviews

"[T]he real treat is Hadfield's presentation. His familiar and natural demeanor draws the listener in from the opening lines. All the joy and wonder he feels about space travel and life is conveyed through a masterful use of pace and tone, while flawless transitions lead to an equally effective delivery of the reflective passages. This appealing audiobook certainly allows Hadfield to add 'narrator' to his impressive list of accomplishments." (AudioFile)

Wonderful story!

Wonderful story by one of Canada's national heroes! Loads of incredible wisdom about living a great life, shared in an amusing, humble, and memorable way. A must read (or listen).

Fascinating account

If you could sum up An Astronaut's Guide to Life on Earth in three words, what would they be?

Quite a story

Who was your favorite character and why?

There were no characters in this story. It is an account of Chris Hadfield's experiences as he went from dreaming of being an astronaut at age 9, to actually being one.

What does Chris Hadfield bring to the story that you wouldn’t experience if you just read the book?

I enjoyed hearing his story in his own voice. The story could not have rung as clear if narrated by someone else.

What did you learn from An Astronaut's Guide to Life on Earth that you would use in your daily life?

I learned so many lessons. Chris taught us to learn preparedness, not get full of ourselves, find solutions to problems and many other valuable lessons. I found it bittersweet that by fulfilling his dream, he had to create distance between himself and those he loved. That must have been extremely difficult and heart-wrenching. But kudos to Chris for following his dreams and his heart. Many of us do not have the courage to do this.

Any additional comments?

This was a very enjoyable book though it really did not have any ups or downs... just steady.

Excellent mix of space and life advice

He speaks of almost all aspects of the life of an astronaut on earth and in space. Excellent read for someone who is curious about the ins and outs of space travel!

Additionally, almost all stories are accompanied by what he learnt about himself and how to better perceive the world to make life the best it can be were very interesting!

the title say it. useful lessons from space.

Would you recommend this audiobook to a friend? If so, why?

great read for all of those who never made it to space and people working in intense situations. useful lessons from "the man" on why he became so successful. resonated with me a lot. book makes you wish you could be stuck beside chris on a plane stuck on tarmac or intense situation. you'll want to listen to this over and over.

What about Chris Hadfield’s performance did you like?

great read. really good voice.

What’s an idea from the book that you will remember?

always be prepared. luck favours the prepared.
enjoy the journey and even if you don't achieve a goal, you had a helluva time getting to where u are.

Any additional comments?

give this book to your kid. very inspiring read.

Not at all what you would think

Would you consider the audio edition of An Astronaut's Guide to Life on Earth to be better than the print version?

Of course!! It was narrated by Chris!!!

What other book might you compare An Astronaut's Guide to Life on Earth to and why?

It's a book all on its own

Which character – as performed by Chris Hadfield – was your favorite?

Not applicable

What did you learn from An Astronaut's Guide to Life on Earth that you would use in your daily life?

Chris actually made me rethink how I can handle difficult situations and keep my cool. This is a great book for leadership.

Any additional comments?

This is an easy listen. Chris does not get too scientific and keeps it simple. The stories he tells about all his different challenges and struggles are so inspiring. This is a must listen.

Fantastically narrated, emotional journey

Chris provides an insightful look into the space industry and shares a great deal about his personal journey. loved the book, Chris thanks for everything.

A true aspiring tale

I dream to aspire to the great humbleness of one of the most interesting men in the world. I am even more proud now then I have ever been to be a Canadian, developer, and innovator.

life changing

such a great way to see life on earth, great points of view, and amazing info on the space program I knew very little of. Such a fun read, I cried, I laughed, it became a part of me

Amazing

What a story. What a life. What a great man, father and husband. I highly highly recommend this book!!!!

An Astronaut's Guide to Life on Earth

Chis Hadfield is an awe inspiring person, who is a testament to his drive to succeed. In this book he displays humility in achieving what most look up to the stars and dream of, and offers a unrestricted view into his life achievements. The fact that Chris took the time to narrate his story gives the words great import, and validates what an incredible service he has done for the human race. For me, he will always be a +1 in mankind's mission to understand more about ourselves, and the planet we call home.