The Return

Citizen Obeserver Flights

First Is A Series

1

Hardcover

1st

Alternating Person

Fiction

301

51

2018-06-26 16:51:18

Based on the images provided, here is an overview of the book, its historical significance, and value.
Overview of the Book
* Title: The Return: A Novel of the Human Adventure
* Authors: Buzz Aldrin (Apollo 11 astronaut) and John Barnes (science fiction novelist)
* Genre: Science fiction
* Publication Date: 2000
The book tells a fictional story about the future of space travel, with a particular focus on space tourism. The plot involves a tragic accident during a Space Shuttle flight, which leads to a major crisis for the space industry. The story follows a former astronaut who, along with his allies, must launch a daring rescue mission to save the crew of the International Space Station, which is in danger due to a high-altitude nuclear detonation. The novel, as described by Aldrin, ”carries a ring of truth” due to his firsthand experience and strong advocacy for the future of space exploration.
Historical Importance
While not a historical book in the traditional sense, The Return is historically significant for several reasons:
* Co-authored by a historical figure: It was co-written by Buzz Aldrin, the second person to walk on the Moon. This gives the novel a unique perspective and adds an element of authenticity to its themes of space exploration.
* Advocacy for space exploration: The book serves as a vehicle for Aldrin’s ideas about the future of space, particularly his belief that space tourism is crucial for driving the industry forward.
* Reflects the turn of the millennium: Published in 2000, the novel captures a moment in time when the future of space travel was a major topic of discussion, particularly with the construction of the International Space Station.
First Edition and Signatures
* First Edition: The image showing the number line ”0 9 8 7 6 5 4 3 2” is a key indicator that this is a first edition, first printing. In publishing, a number line that includes ”1” (or ”0” in this case) indicates a first printing. Since the ”2” is the last number in the sequence, it’s a strong sign of an early printing.
* Signatures: The photo of the interior page clearly shows a signature by Buzz Aldrin. The inscription ”To MICHAEL CASSERLY Best Wish Buzz Aldrin” makes this a personalized, signed copy. While the other author, John Barnes, is listed, the image does not show his signature. The significance of Aldrin’s signature is considerable, as he is a monumental figure in space exploration history.
Value
The value of this book is directly related to its condition, its status as a first edition, and especially the presence of Aldrin’s signature.
* First Edition: A first edition of this book has a higher value than later printings.
* Signed by Buzz Aldrin: A copy signed by Buzz Aldrin, one of the most famous astronauts in history, is significantly more valuable than an unsigned copy. The personalized inscription, while it can sometimes slightly decrease the value to a collector, is also a unique element.
Based on current sales data from various booksellers and auction houses, a first edition of The Return signed by Buzz Aldrin can be valued anywhere from $150 to over $250, depending on the book’s condition and the specific market. The personalized inscription adds a unique touch, making it a special item for the person it was dedicated to.

Forge Books

9780312874247

United States

NY

2000-05-08

2000

2

English

Yes

~$9.94

2026-04-07

2018-06-26 16:51:18