Tee Time On The Moon by David A. Kelly

Tee Time On The Moon: How Astronaut Alan Shepard Played Lunar Golf

David A. Kelly; Illustrated by Edwin Fotheringham

Calkins Creek. An Imprint of Astra Books for Young Readers. 2023

The Apollo 14 took off for the moon in 1971. Alan Shepard, Stuart Roosa and Edgar Mitchell were all on board. What Roosa and Mitchell didn’t know is that Shepard had a secret. He had brought something special with him…in a sock.

This fun informational picture book tells the story of how, after doing their work as astronauts - conducting scientific experiments, collecting soil samples, and taking measurements. Just before they head back into the lunar module for the planned rendezvous with Apollo 14, “Shepard snapped the head onto the scoop handle to create a makeshift MOON CLUB! Alan Shepard planned to play golf on the moon.”

In the first half of the book, Kelly shares facts about the space mission, the landing and Mitchell and Shepard’s scientific goals. The second half explores how Shepard, who loved golf, wanted to see just how far a golf ball would travel on the moon. 

Paired with Kelly’s fun narrative are Fotheringham’s full page, digital art that truly enhance the story. 

This fun story about space travel will delight many fans who dream of space travel.

Included is a selected bibliography and an overview of the Apollo missions that went to the moon, some facts about Commander Shepard, and brief explanations on a few topics related to the Apollo 14 mission.