STAR TREK has grown to symbolize the desire to “boldly go” as it evolved to become a cultural phenomenon that championed Diversity, Diplomacy, and the Human Condition.

With illustrations from all of the STAR TREK series and a thoughtful, intuitive narrative, readers can explore a STAR TREK timeline from the September 1966 “Star Trek” series premiere to the expected 2020 release of “Star Trek: Picard.” And, for those interested in comparisons with that other space series, there's an opportunity to compare “Star Trek” and “Star Wars” by considering such characteristics as the Flagship, the Enemy, the Weapons, the Android, and more.

A Starship Field Guide examines five of the iconic ships of the fleet; then takes an intriguing look at what’s real science and what’s pretend. Readers may be surprised to discover which of the show's gadgets inspired real-world advances in communication, computers, and virtual reality.

The influence of STAR TREK is global, from the Iowa town that’s proclaimed itself the future birthplace of Captain James T. Kirk to the official Post Office stamps to popular songs. A discussion of complex alien races leads to a comparison of the top ten aliens of the Trek Universe, including [of course] the tribble.

Whether it’s Spock, STAR TREK’s forays into social issues, the fans, the conventions, or the merchandise, some fifty-three years after the Starship Enterprise crossed television screens for the first time, the STAR TREK Universe continues to “Live long and Prosper.”

Readers, especially those who hold a fond place in their hearts for STAR TREK, will find much to appreciate here.

Highly recommended. ( )