Kathleen Ann Goonan

"A Short History of the Twentieth Century, or, When You Wish Upon a Star", by Kathleen Ann Goonan, is about the daughter of a rocket scientist in the post 1950s who wants to go to the moon, despite being discouraged because "girls don't do that." A novelette that's science fiction by association. At the Publisher's request, this title is being sold without Digital Rights Management Software (DRM) applied.

A Tor.Com Original

A Short History of the Twentieth Century, or, When You Wish Upon a Star

Sarah Escorsa

Actual rating: 2.5

This was an enjoyable enough little story if a bit light. Although the plot focusses on Carol and on her struggles to become a scientist, I have to admit that I was much more interested by Carol's dad. I wanted to read more about his experience during and after the war. I wanted to read more about Braun and his involvement with Nasa. Had I liked Carol's character more I might have been interested in her story but I can't say I felt much sympathy towards her and didn't care much what happened to her. I did like June's character quite a lot and think it would have been much more interesting to focus on why she had to give up her career to become a Stepford wife of sorts. 

Goonan's writing is a bit uneven as she breaks the rhythm of the story several times by throwing in dates and historical facts. This might be one of the reasons why I never really managed to get into the story.

This novelette had a lot of potential but it somehow feels like the author missed the point. It wasn't a bad read but I can't say it was a good one either. Ultimately it all felt a bit meh.

A Short History of the Twentieth Century, or, When You Wish Upon a Star A Tor.Com Original

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