Susan Kilrain

When Susan Kilrain was a child growing up in the 1960s, she often gazed at the sky and dreamed of flying among the stars. At a time when expectations for women were narrowly confined to the roles of mother, teacher, nurse, and secretary, her ambition to become a pilot, and eventually an astronaut, seemed not just bold, but nearly impossible. With no visible role models to follow, her aspirations might have faded were it not for one powerful voice: her father’s. His unwavering belief in her potential, captured in the simple yet profound words, “You can be anything you want to be,” planted the seed of confidence that would carry her through decades of challenges.

In Slaying Snakes in the Cockpit, a prescriptive memoir, Kilrain takes readers on a gripping, inspiring journey through the many trials she faced on her path to success. From the grueling rigor of aerospace engineering and flight schools to serving as a US Navy test pilot and covert operative to the ultimate challenge of becoming the youngest person ever to pilot the Space Shuttle, her life is a testament to perseverance, courage, and conviction. Alongside her professional achievements, she also shares her personal triumphs and the delicate balancing act of being a devoted wife and mother while navigating some of the world’s most demanding careers.

Through candid storytelling and reflective insight, Kilrain recounts not only the most apparent hurdles like gender bias and institutional resistance, but also the internal battles with doubt and fear that every dreamer faces. Each chapter of her story offers practical lessons on leadership, grit, and purpose, making this memoir not just a recounting of a remarkable life, but a manual for anyone striving to pursue their dreams against the odds. Whether you’re a young student inspired by space, a professional breaking new ground, or someone simply seeking a spark of motivation, Slaying Snakes in the Cockpit delivers an empowering message—with vision, resilience, and the right encouragement, the sky is not the limit; it’s just the beginning.

An Unlikely Astronaut tells the true story of how Astronaut Susan Kilrain overcame all obstacles to achieve her dream of flying in space after growing up in a time when, as a woman, it seemed nearly impossible. The youngest person and one of only three women to have ever piloted the space shuttle, her story of unwavering determination will encourage children to reach for the stars even if the odds are against them.

Readers can further engage with Susan’s journey using the book’s Click & See™ interactivity that enhances the reading experience with photos and videos from her life and career. Teachers will also appreciate the available free space-related activities and exercises that satisfy basic common core curriculum requirements in math, science, and English language arts.