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  • Published: 19 August 2026
  • ISBN: 9780593902363
  • Imprint: RHUS Children's Books
  • Format: Paperback
  • Pages: 224
  • RRP: $19.99

History Smashers: The Space Race



Myths! Lies! Failed satellite launches? Head to the launch pad, the History Smashers are busting the biggest misconceptions about the Space-Race, and the facts are blasting off in 10-9-8…

On April 14, 1969, President John F. Kennedy announced that the U.S. would put a man on the moon kicking off the Space Race, right? WRONG! The Space Race was already well underway by 1969...and honestly, the U.S. was lightyears behind the Russians when it came to space exploration. 

Alright, but once the U.S. got going, it was smooth sailing to the stars, right? Not exactly. Space exploration always comes with risk, and the truth is to learn about our universe, it took the work of many scientists, politicians, and passionate every day citizens like you.

Grab your helmet and join New York Times bestselling author Kate Messer as she leads the History Smashers to dispel the misconceptions and outright myths about tensions between the U.S. and Russia during the consequential Space Race.

Ready to bust new myths? Check out more titles in the History Smashers series: The Mayflower • The Titanic • The American Revolution • The Salem Witch Trials

  • Published: 19 August 2026
  • ISBN: 9780593902363
  • Imprint: RHUS Children's Books
  • Format: Paperback
  • Pages: 224
  • RRP: $19.99

About the author

Kate Messner

Kate Messner is passionately curious and writes books that encourage kids to wonder, too. Her titles include award-winning picture books, like Over and Under the Snow; novels, like Breakout and Chirp; the Fergus and Zeke easy reader series and the popular Ranger in Time chapter books; and works of nonfiction with a focus on nature and history. She lives on Lake Champlain with her family.

Also by Kate Messner

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Praise for History Smashers: The Space Race

Smashing Praise for the History Smashers Series!
*"Critical, respectful, and engaging." —Kirkus Reviews on The Mayflower, starred review
*"A necessary addition for libraries serving tweens and teens, this is especially useful for reports and history curriculum.” –School Library Journal on Salem Witch Trials, starred review
“Messner proves that she’s ready, willing, and entirely able to debunk almost everything you think you know.” —Booklist on The Mayflower