MAGNIFICENT DESOLATION The Long Journey Home From the Moon

The second man to walk on the moon details his life, opening with his historic trip in 1969. He describes the fascinating journey in somewhat technical, though understandable, details. But what happens upon his return is Aldrin's real story. He finds himself suddenly thrust into an international media spotlight. He candidly describes his bouts of depression, alcoholism, several marriages, and assorted relationships with celebrities, as well as his determination to ensure the continuation of space travel. At first, Patrick Egan's voice seems a bit too stilted, too “by the book.” But you settle into it, like a long journey, and it becomes almost comforting as you hear Aldrin's warts-and-all account. An interview with Aldrin and a producer can be heard following the narration. M.B. © AudioFile 2009, Portland, Maine [Published: OCTOBER 2009]