Taylor Jenkins Reid Discusses Her Journey in Writing "Atmosphere: A Love Story"
Author Taylor Jenkins Reid recently shared insights into her latest novel, “Atmosphere: A Love Story,” which is inspired by NASA’s dynamic shuttle program of the 1980s. While writing, she faced challenges and turned to her husband for guidance, expressing her insecurities about the technical aspects of space travel.
Reid recalled a moment of self-doubt where she asked, “How can I write this book when I don’t know enough about the space shuttle?” Her husband encouraged her, highlighting how much she had learned in recent months.
“Atmosphere” follows the story of Joan Goodwin, an astronomer who is selected for NASA’s astronaut training program. Throughout her journey, Joan and her fellow trainees form a close bond and chase their dreams of exploring outer space—until they face a significant tragedy.
The narrative is structured across two timelines: one when Joan first joins NASA and another set in December 1984, marking a critical moment when a mission encounters disaster. The book is being adapted into a film by the creators of “Captain Marvel,” Anna Boden and Ryan Fleck.
Reid revealed the extensive research she undertook to accurately portray the intricacies of space missions. Known for her successful novels set in various historical contexts, she emphasized that “Atmosphere” demanded more effort than usual to research and understand aerospace dynamics.
The author expressed gratitude towards Paul Dye, a seasoned NASA flight director, who provided valuable insights into the workings of space missions. Reid noted, "The book doesn’t exist if he hadn’t done that."
In discussing her passion for astronomy, Reid shared a meaningful experience from a family road trip to the Grand Canyon, which deepened her connection to the night sky. “If anyone can, I encourage them to step outside and look up—it’s an incredibly rewarding experience.”
Moreover, Reid opened up about taking a break from social media last fall, noting how it helped her regain clarity and focus on her voice and values without the distractions and pressures often present in online spaces.
Finally, she touched on her excitement about the upcoming Netflix adaptation of “The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo.” While she couldn’t share too many details, Reid reassured fans that the creative team is dedicated to delivering a faithful and impactful representation of her beloved story.
As “Atmosphere: A Love Story” launches, Reid’s passion for storytelling and her dedication to authenticity continue to resonate with readers and fans alike.
