3.97
"Laika" by Nick Abadzis is a gripping and poignant graphic novel that tells the story of the Soviet space dog who became the first living creature to orbit the Earth. The book is a masterful blend of historical fact and creative storytelling, offering a unique perspective on the space race and the Cold War era. Abadzis's richly detailed illustrations and engaging prose bring Laika's story to life, exploring the dog's early life as a stray on the streets of Moscow, her training and eventual selection for the space mission, and the emotional toll on the scientists and engineers who worked on the project. The book also delves into the political context of the time, shedding light on the intense competition between the United States and the Soviet Union to achieve dominance in space exploration. What sets "Laika" apart is its exploration of the human-animal bond and the ethical questions surrounding the use of animals in scientific research. The book raises important issues about the treatment of animals in experiments and the sacrifices made in the name of scientific progress. At the same time, it celebrates Laika's courage and resilience, and the deep bond that formed between the dog and the scientists who cared for her. "Laika" is a beautifully crafted and thought-provoking book that will appeal to readers of all ages. Its engaging storytelling, stunning illustrations, and historical significance make it a must-read for anyone interested in the history of space exploration, the Cold War, or the ethical treatment of animals. Abadzis's masterful storytelling and visual style make "Laika" a standout addition to any graphic novel collection...
Tom Wolfe
The Right Stuff
If you enjoyed the historical and biographical elements of 'Laika', you might like 'The Right Stuff'. This book tells the story of the early days of the American space program, focusing on the test pilots who became the first astronauts. Wolfe's vivid writing and thorough research make for a thrilling and informative read.
Learn MoreFrederick Forsyth
The Dogs of War
Like 'Laika', 'The Dogs of War' features a canine character in a prominent role. However, this book is a very different kind of story - a political thriller about a group of mercenaries who attempt to overthrow a government in Africa. If you're looking for a fast-paced, action-packed read with a unique twist, this might be the book for you.
Learn MoreMary Doria Russell
The Sparrow
If you enjoyed the speculative and imaginative elements of 'Laika', you might like 'The Sparrow'. This novel tells the story of a group of Jesuit priests who travel to another planet in search of extraterrestrial life. The book explores themes of faith, culture, and communication, and features a richly detailed and believable alien world.
Learn MoreAndy Weir
The Martian
Like 'Laika', 'The Martian' is a story about a human (and a dog, in a way) stranded in space. This novel tells the story of an astronaut who is left behind on Mars and must use his ingenuity and resourcefulness to survive until help can arrive. The book is both funny and suspenseful, and features detailed and accurate descriptions of space travel and technology.
Learn MoreJim Lovell
Apollo 13
If you enjoyed the historical and biographical elements of 'Laika', you might like 'Apollo 13'. This book tells the story of the ill-fated Apollo 13 mission, which was aborted after an explosion on board the spacecraft. The book provides a detailed and thrilling account of the rescue mission, and explores the challenges and triumphs of space travel.
Learn MoreMary Robinette Kowal
The Calculating Stars
If you enjoyed the speculative and imaginative elements of 'Laika', you might like 'The Calculating Stars'. This novel is an alternate history of the space race, set in a world where a meteorite strikes Earth and causes massive climate change. The book follows a group of women mathematicians who help calculate the trajectories for space missions, and explores themes of gender, race, and social justice.
Learn MoreLiu Cixin
The Three-Body Problem
If you enjoyed the imaginative and speculative elements of 'Laika', you might like 'The Three-Body Problem'. This novel is a science fiction epic that tells the story of a alien civilization that is trying to make contact with Earth. The book explores themes of physics, philosophy, and the nature of reality, and features a richly detailed and imaginative alien world.
Learn MoreRebecca Skloot
The Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks
If you enjoyed the biographical and historical elements of 'Laika', you might like 'The Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks'. This book tells the story of Henrietta Lacks, a poor black tobacco farmer whose cancer cells were taken without her knowledge or consent and used to create the first immortal human cell line. The book explores themes of medical ethics, race, and social justice.
Learn MoreRobert A. Heinlein
The Moon is a Harsh Mistress
If you enjoyed the speculative and imaginative elements of 'Laika', you might like 'The Moon is a Harsh Mistress'. This novel is a science fiction classic that tells the story of a lunar colony that rebels against Earth's domination. The book explores themes of politics, revolution, and the nature of freedom, and features a richly detailed and believable lunar society.
Learn More