Taylor Jenkins Reid recalls moments while writing her latest novel, “Atmosphere: Love Story.” Set against the backdrop of NASA’s robust shuttle program in the 1980s, she often felt stuck. She would seek comfort in her routine and share her thoughts with her husband.
“I can’t write this book. I don’t know enough about the Space Shuttle. I’m uncertain about what happens when the payload bay doors won’t close, and I’m clueless about returning within a certain number of rotations. But I can’t land on white sand. They have to land at Cape Kennedy.” He responded, “You know more than you did months ago.”
On Tuesday, “Atmosphere” tells the story of Joan Goodwin, an astronomer chosen for NASA’s astronaut program. Alongside her fellow trainees, she strives for her dream of space travel until a tragedy strikes.
The narrative unfolds across two timelines: one when Joan first joins the NASA program, and another during the disastrous mission of December 1984. The creators of Captain Marvel, Anna Borden and Ryan Fleck, are adapting the book into a film for theatrical release.
Reid recognized she required more than the usual 6-8 weeks for research. Delving deep into subjects became her forte. She crafted a blockbuster set in the Hollywood golden age with “The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo,” explored the rock scene of the 1970s with “Daisy Jones & Six,” and captured 1980s surf culture in “Malibu Rising,” while chronicling professional tennis in “Carrie Soto is Back.” However, “Atmosphere” demanded extra time for reading and comprehension.
“Reflecting on it feels like a fever dream now,” Reid shared with The Associated Press. “It was an incredibly intense time.”
She needed assistance for this endeavor.
“I had to reach out to people.”
Reid was pleasantly surprised by the number of individuals willing to help. A crucial voice was Paul Dye, NASA’s longest-serving flight director.
“He dedicated time to me,” Reid noted. “He guided me in creating mayhem for the Space Shuttle and clarified the communication process between mission control and the shuttle.”
In a separate interview, Reid also discussed topics ranging from astronomy to social media and the latest updates on Netflix’s adaptation of “The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo.”
The response has been condensed for clarity and brevity.
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AP: How has writing “Atmosphere” changed you?
Reid: I’m genuinely interested in astronomy. Last Thanksgiving, my family and I took a road trip to the Grand Canyon. We planned to visit Dark Sky Park, so we routed through Scottsdale, Arizona.
In urban areas, light pollution limits visibility; however, at Dark Sky Park, artificial light is minimal, allowing for a clearer view of the stars. Unfortunately, when we arrived, it was cloudy. The following night at the Grand Canyon, the skies cleared, and we could see everything. I found myself there for hours, moved to tears.
I can’t emphasize enough: simply stepping outside to gaze at the night sky is truly rewarding.
AP: You left social media last fall. Where do you stand now?
Reid: I wasn’t aware of how many negative messages social media was filling my mind with, constantly making me feel inadequate. Since disconnecting, my internal voice has become clearer.
I found it easier to articulate my thoughts, feelings, and values. I’ve become more attuned to myself while also being present in the world around me.
AP: Serena Williams is an executive producing the Netflix series “Carrie Soto.” Have you met her?
Reid: Yes. I was incredibly nervous. “Taylor, I’m going to slow my heart rate down.” My admiration for her beauty both as an athlete and a person is boundless. The thought of having written something she finds valuable is a tremendous honor, especially with her involvement in ensuring the authenticity of the story.
It’s one thing to imagine the experiences of competing and winning the US Open. Serena knows that world intimately, having done it numerous times. Collaborating with her and her team will elevate the project in ways that feel truly special.
AP: What’s the current status of the “Evelyn Hugo” movie?
Reid: While there’s not much I’m allowed to disclose, I sense that some misunderstandings persist. Everyone is diligently working to create this film and is aware of the pressure to maintain accuracy. We are all committed to ensuring it receives the respect it deserves because Netflix values its readers and aims to fulfill their expectations.
Source: apnews.com