Big Man Leland Melvin

And His Journey through Life and Space

Who Is Leland? And what is his book about?

Leland Melvin was a NASA engineer and famously went to space in 2008 on the shuttle Atlantis. Not only did he go to space he is a dog whisperer, Football player, and even the author of the book “Chasing Space”. This book is about Leland’s life and how he turned from a drafted NFL player to an astronaut and going through the events leading up to those.

Central Idea and Social Issue

In this book there are many different Ideas and Issues that Leland had to face. But I believe the central idea of the book is that opportunities come and go but its up to you to take them. I also believe the social issue would be discrimination. The central is true because Leland had gotten many opportunities and he had taken them. For example when the NFL called him he didn’t hesitate to join and try out. This social issue is also correct because as a teen he was harassed and not treated the same as a white teen would normally be treated.

Themes and Social Issues

I believe the theme of the book is, Anyone can achieve there dreams no matter who they are. I believe this connects to the social issue of discrimination because even though he was a person of color he still achieved his dreams. This is true because on page 142 it states, “I was going to space.” this proves that he achieved his dreams.

Arguments and Tone

One argument found in the text would definitely be, not everyone can achieve there dreams. I believe the author thinks anyone can achieve there dreams. This is true because the author uses words like achieve, believe, and hard work throughout the text.

Social Science Lens and Connections between parts

History, Civics, Geography, and Economics. But we don’t have economics here so enjoy the 3!

History

Leland Melvin witnessed many historical events such as the Columbia and Challenger disasters and the inauguration of Barrack Obama.

Civics

Leland worked for NASA which is a big part of the government. So when he trains, and goes to space he is helping the American government and the american people.

Geography

This book definitely has some geography in it because Leland must travel to train to go to space. And when he eventually dose go to space he sees everything on Earth!