Boston Public Library President David Leonard will host a Public Conversation with Robert Stone and Alan Andres. The discussion will center around their book, "Chasing the Moon", a companion book to the "American Experience" film on PBS of the same title. The book and the six-hour documentary bring to brilliant life the important figures who helped America complete JFK's vision with the first lunar landing fifty years ago.

Based on eyewitness accounts and newly discovered archival material, "Chasing the Moon" reveals for the first time the unknown stories of the fascinating individuals whose imaginative work across several decades culminated in America’s momentous achievement. More than a story of engineers and astronauts, the moon landing — now celebrating its 50th anniversary — grew out of the dreams of science fiction writers, filmmakers, military geniuses, and rule-breaking scientists.

Setting these key players in the political, social, and cultural climate of the time, and including captivating photographs throughout, "Chasing the Moon" focuses on the science and the history, but most importantly, the extraordinary individuals behind what was undoubtedly the greatest human achievement of the 20th century.

This month marks 50 years since the moon landing!