Praise for The Trek Continues

"I loved the new book! 'The Fairy' = hilarious. ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
I loved the new Sarah stories. They really were soul mates, two very different and brilliant people that were very good for each other. And cats. Cats are the best. I especially enjoyed the history of UCI. I was so glad the Anteater won the competition for mascot. I graduated from there in 1981 and worked in the Physics Department as a draftsman while studying Comparative Literature. The UCI campus was very much not user friendly when it was first built. Chet was spot on about the mud. Loved the bit about Hycon Engineering. Sounds like a fascinating time. Thank you, Chet, for writing these stories."
--Marilyn Scott-Waters, Writer and Illustrator, reader of both books in the new series 
Her works include: The Toymaker: Paper Toys That You Can Make Yourself; Haunted Histories; The Search For Vile Things.

"I had to keep turning the page to see what would happen next! ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
I really enjoyed the first book, and the new stories in The Trek Continues -- such fun to read! I just had to keep turning the pages to see what was going to happen.  That scorpion...it almost got his toes! I like in this one that there's more science...and the dog, and cats, chasing each other. I could just see it. Makes me miss my cats. And I loved the new Star Trek story. That last story…ah that is beautiful…Sarah was amazing. And the highlight of his life. And after the trauma of losing her, he goes on with other stories…hopping all over the place. I forgive him for hopping…he’s a good storyteller. Interesting…we get into his mind and how it works…I like it…I guess I like him. He leads an interesting life…of his own making. Maybe people should make more out of their lives…thinking about that."
--Mary Kenner, Associate Editor, RKEdit, retired Clinical Laboratory Scientist II, reader of both books in the series 

"Some lives are lived quietly. Chester L. Richards’ is not one of them. A retired aerospace engineer and inventor with 19 patents, Richards has spent his years chasing adventure in every imaginable form: co-writing the iconic Star Trek episode The Tholian Web as a college student, navigating raging rivers, exploring uncharted landscapes, tinkering with space technology, and embracing the sheer unpredictability of life. The Trek Continues, the second book in his Treks Beyond the Great Potato series, picks up where his first memoir left off and once again proves that Richards’ life story reads like a thrilling blend of science, travelogue, and human reflection."
--the_laconic_reader, on Instagram, for full review

"For readers who enjoy memoirs that combine intellectual curiosity with true tales of exploration, this book is a treat. ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
The book is packed with vivid, hair-raising adventures. Chester L. Richards recounts rafting accidents where survival hung by a thread, encounters with aggressive baboons raining 'missiles' from above, and brushes with toothy river creatures lurking beneath the surface. But between the adrenaline-filled moments, Richards shares remarkable behind-the-scenes insights into space science, like his work on uncanny superfluids or candid stories from astronauts such as Gordon Cooper.

What makes this memoir shine is not just the adventure, but the humanity at its core. Richards writes movingly about Sarah, the love of his life, whose loss spurred him to gather his memories into books. His reflections on love, grief, resilience, and companionship with his pets (like the unforgettable Hector the Dog) lend the narrative a deep, emotional resonance.

Richards’ storytelling style is witty, warm, and wonderfully unpretentious. He never romanticizes danger, nor does he let grief overshadow his zest for life. Instead, he weaves science, humor, danger, and tenderness together under a single guiding theme: every day is an adventure."
--Christeena Thomas, Goodreads review

"The Trek Continues: More Memoirs of a Rocket Scientist by Chester Richards is an inspiring read. I loved getting a glimpse into the life of someone who has worked so closely with space exploration. Richards’ stories feel personal and authentic, and I could really sense his passion for science and discovery. The book made me feel connected to the challenges and triumphs of a rocket scientist’s life, and it left me both informed and motivated. It’s the kind of memoir that makes you appreciate the human side of science."
--Kim S, Net Galley Reviewer  

Editorial Reviews

"For readers who loved the first volume, this one delivers everything they came back for. For anyone new to the series, start at the beginning and clear your schedule. ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
--Jason Anderson, The Reader Review

Read the full review  👇

Read More from Jason Anderson, The Reader Review

Some lives resist summary. A retired aerospace engineer with nineteen patents who co-wrote one of the most beloved episodes of the original Star Trek, navigated deadly white water rapids in Ethiopia during a civil war, had near-death encounters with crocodiles in Africa, and surfed Southern California between all of it. Reading The Trek Continues is the experience of keeping up with someone whose capacity for living has never once slowed down to match the pace of ordinary biography.
 
This second volume picks up exactly where the award-winning first book left off, and the momentum is fully intact. The stories gathered here have the same quality that made readers love the first collection: the sense that they are absolutely true, that no amount of invention could have improved them, and that the man telling them has somehow extracted maximum adventure from every situation he has ever found himself in. Near-death experiences land with the matter-of-fact weight of someone who has had enough of them to develop perspective. The behind-the-scenes details of the Tholian Web night and its surprising legacy give Star Trek fans something genuinely new to hold onto.
 
But what elevates this memoir above pure adventure writing is Sarah. Richards began writing these stories because of her loss, and her presence runs through the book the way a river runs through a landscape, shaping everything around it without always being visible. His reflections on love and grief and the specific kind of resilience that comes from losing someone central to your whole story are handled with a warmth and directness that catches you off guard precisely when the previous chapter had you laughing about something involving crocodiles. That tonal range is very hard to achieve and feels completely natural here.
 
Hector the miracle dog and the phenomenal cats make appearances. Extraordinary people keep showing up, as they apparently always have.
 
For readers who loved the first volume, this one delivers everything they came back for. For anyone new to the series, start at the beginning and clear your schedule.

By Jason Anderson, The Reader Review

"This is the first time I’ve realized that you can write about writing as some people write about wine. This book has not a bouquet or oaky subnotes, but a rhythm, a lilt, a way of looking at life that carries the reader along, a little sad when one story ends, but looking forward to the next."
--  Caroline McCullagh, The Mensa Bulletin. Read the full review  👇

READ MORE BY cAROLINE mCcuLLAGH, tHE mENSA bULLETIN

My first book this month is a second memoir from Chester L. Richards called The Trek Continues: More Memoirs of a Rocket Scientist. I gave a rave review to his first book. From the Potato to Star Trek and Beyond, and this one is just as interesting. Richards started his writing“ career” when he and a friend, on a lark, wrote an episode for Star Trek®, the TV show. They submitted their episode, called “The Tholian Web,” for consideration, and to their astonishment, it was accepted. It has ultimately come to be considered one of the top 10episodes of the whole series.

Well, he was bitten by the bug. Richards decided to continue writing but soon realized he needed to have something to write about, so he purposefully set out to lead a life of adventure so he wouldn’t run out of topics.
This second book, like the first, is a series of short stories about his life that can be read in any order. This is the first time I’ve realized that you can write about writing as some people write about wine. This book has not a bouquet or oaky subnotes, but a rhythm, a lilt, a way of looking at life that carries the reader along, a little sad when one story ends, but looking forward to the next. And best of all, he promises that there‘s a third book in the offing. This one’s going on my keep shelf next to the first one. I recommend it to you.
Visit https://ChesterLRichards.com.

"Richards has a true gift for storytelling. His tone is warm and conversational, making even the most harrowing experiences feel like tales swapped around a campfire.
-- From Books That Make You. Read the full review 👇

Read more from Books that make you

In The Trek Continues: More Memoirs of a Rocket Scientist, Chester L. Richards offers a warm and adventurous journey through the many chapters of his life. Blending humor, reflection, and heartfelt memories, Richards invites readers to see the world through the eyes of someone who has touched both the stars and the soul. While the book picks up from his earlier memoir, this collection stands strongly on its own, with stories that explore space, rivers, wilderness, love, loss, and the enduring power of memory.

 Beyond the vivid recounting of extraordinary experiences, readers may find themselves reflecting on the nature of their own lives—the adventures taken, the risks missed, the loves cherished, and the losses mourned.  Richards’ stories are not just tales of scientific achievement or far-flung expeditions; they are meditations on what it means to live fully. His life, marked by bold curiosity and emotional depth, reminds us that adventure isn’t always about distant places—it can also be the terrain of the heart. In facing love and loss with openness and grace, and in stepping into the unknown with courage, Richards offers a quietly powerful message: that through adventure, we expand not only our horizons but our very capacity for living, loving, and remembering.

As co-writer of the iconic Star Trek episode “The Tholian Web,” Richards finds a fitting metaphor for his life—a journey through strange new worlds, some imagined, others vividly real. The episode, known for its eerie atmosphere and the inventive introduction of the “interdimensional trap” that strands Captain Kirk between realities, not only became a fan favorite but also pushed the boundaries of what the series could explore in terms of science and human resilience. The concept of the “motivational device” at the heart of the episode—a mysterious force that challenges the crew’s unity and resolve—resonated deeply with audiences and added psychological nuance to the show’s already rich storytelling.

Though he does not dwell long on the behind-the-scenes mechanics of television writing, Richards’ brush with Star Trek sets the tone for the rest of the memoir: a life marked by curiosity, creative risk-taking, and deep appreciation for the minds and people who shape our worlds—fictional and real. Just as “The Tholian Web” stretched the boundaries of the Star Trek universe, Richards’ own journey reflects a constant expansion into the unknown, propelled by invention, humility, and the enduring power of partnership.

From the world of scripted space adventures, The Trek Continues soon shifts focus to Earth-bound exploits—but the excitement doesn’t let up for a moment. What follows is not just a quiet stroll through memory, but a life-threatening thrill ride filled with whitewater rapids, wild animals, and back country mishaps that teeter on the edge of disaster. Richards plunges the reader into episodes of heart-pounding whitewater rafting, close encounters with unpredictable wildlife, and the itchy, uncomfortable aftermath of bug bites that come with venturing deep into untamed wilderness. These aren’t just stories of outdoor recreation—they’re visceral, high-stakes adventures that often leave readers breathless, laughing, or gripping the page in suspense.

Richards has a true gift for storytelling. His tone is warm and conversational, making even the most harrowing experiences feel like tales swapped around a campfire. Whether he’s reflecting on his college days, his innovative work as an engineer, or wild moments in the great outdoors, each anecdote brims with energy and insight. His brushes with danger—whether in a surging river or face-to-face with nature’s more toothy inhabitants—aren’t just entertaining; they illuminate his deep-seated hunger for experience and understanding.

Richards shows us that joy, growth, and meaning often lie just beyond the edge of comfort. His story becomes not just one of survival and exploration, but of savoring the wild, unpredictable ride that life can be.

What gives the book its emotional strength, however, is Richards’ tribute to his late wife, Sarah. Interwoven throughout his stories, she emerges as a calm and confident presence. She had the ability to command a room effortlessly and the kindness to connect with every cat and dog she met. While the book does not linger heavily on grief, it gently weaves Sarah’s spirit into every page. Whether it’s a memory of a shared moment, a pet they cared for, or a phrase she often used, Richards brings her to life with affection and clarity.

In many ways, The Trek Continues is as much about love and resilience as it is about adventure... As the title suggests, The Trek Continues is an ongoing journey. Richards does not pretend to have all the answers. He simply shares what he’s learned and invites readers to reflect on their own paths. His memoir is sincere, humorous, and deeply human.

Whether you are a fan of Star Trek, a lover of the outdoors, a curious mind interested in engineering, or someone who understands the weight and warmth of memory, The Trek Continues offers something meaningful. It reminds us that every trek—whether through space, down a river, or across a lifetime of memories—is worth taking.

-- From Books That Make You

Why Chester L. Richards Shows That Life Itself Is the Greatest Trek
---- From Bree, The Glimpse. Read more below👇

Read more from Bree, the glimpse

Through The Trek Continues, the rocket scientist and adventurer reminds readers that true exploration begins with courage, curiosity, and wonder.

Adventure is not limited to distant jungles, treacherous rivers, or outer space. For Chester L. Richards, retired rocket scientist, Star Trek co-writer, and memoirist, adventure is a mindset. It is the willingness to step into the unknown, even when fear grips your stomach, and to discover awe on the other side.

Defining Adventure Beyond Danger
Richards has lived a life filled with high-stakes moments: rafting the Omo River during civil war, escaping crocodiles in Africa, surfing California’s most dangerous waves, and even enduring a flight where both engines nearly failed. Yet for him, adventure is not about seeking constant peril. It is about choosing to engage with life fully.

“You don’t conquer fear, you walk with it, paddle through it, survive it. And on the other side, there’s awe,” he explains.

This perspective reframes adventure as something available to anyone. It does not require exotic travel or dangerous pursuits; it requires courage in everyday life.

Finding Wonder in Daily Life 

Though Richards’s stories span continents, he insists that ordinary moments can be just as transformative. For him, writing became an adventure after the loss of his beloved wife, Sarah. By putting pen to paper, he found a way to navigate grief, celebrate love, and rediscover joy. His books remind us that adventure might begin with something as simple as journaling, learning a new skill, or daring to try something we fear.

Lessons from a Rocket Scientist
Richards’s memoirs are filled not just with action but also with wisdom. He acknowledges failure openly, treating it not as an embarrassment but as part of growth. His engineering career taught him that innovation often comes from trial and error, a lesson he applies to life.

In his stories, failure becomes a teacher, humor becomes a survival tool, and resilience becomes a way of life. By blending science, storytelling, and soul, Richards encourages readers to see their own lives as treks filled with moments of awe.

Part of what makes Richards compelling is his willingness to be vulnerable. He admits that writing truthfully “is like standing there naked, flaws, failures, and all.” That honesty draws readers in and makes his adventures feel relatable. Not everyone has faced crocodiles, but everyone has faced fear.

Why His Message Resonates Now
In a world where many people feel stuck in routine or overwhelmed by uncertainty, Richards’s message is refreshing. His stories invite us to reframe our challenges as adventures. Whether it is pursuing a career change, learning a creative skill, or simply daring to connect with others, adventure is closer than we think.

Carrying the Trek Forward
With two memoirs and more than fifty essays, Richards continues to inspire audiences around the world. His stories remind us that life is unpredictable, sometimes terrifying, but always rich with opportunities for courage. 

For those seeking to rediscover wonder, live boldly, or embrace resilience, Richards proves that the greatest trek does not require a spaceship or safari. It simply requires the decision to step forward when your gut clenches, and to find awe waiting on the other side.

Praise for Book 1, From The Potato to Star Trek & Beyond

 
"I wholeheartedly recommend this book with 5 full stars, shining brightly!      ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Great read. Some thoughts and reminiscences from a well lived (and slightly worn) life!
I’m sincerely glad that I read this book! The first page left me with a lump in my throat. The final page left me (literally) with tears in my eyes...He is so compelling that by the time he is telling us about his father, mother, and grandfather’s hernia, I’m committed and genuinely care about them, and I found myself rooting for their success even though they have already been gone by the time the book was written...He also describes the ‘potato’, but not until you’re 66% through the book, and it is the absolute LAST thing that you could possibly imagine it to be...The book is genuine, it is honest, and it is him!...I will never watch 'The Tholian Web' again without thinking about an orbital rocket defense network, how many mirrors and how much gas it takes to make a laser, or the dangers of hidden rocks and waterfalls in a river again...And I appreciate that..."
Read full review by Thaddeus Tuffentsamer, Daily Star Trek News. Also an Amazon Vine Voice Review. 

"In his captivating memoir, "From The Potato to Star Trek and Beyond," Chester L. Richards invites readers on a rollercoaster ride through a life that defies convention. ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Richards, a seasoned rocket scientist, shares a series of enthralling stories that not only detail his experiences with the unpredictable and the extraordinary but also serve as a testament to the resilience of the human spirit. The title of the book itself, which combines seemingly unrelated concepts like potatoes and Star Trek, alludes to the wide variety of experiences that take place inside its pages. Richards skillfully crafts a story that flows from almost fatal meetings with "The Potato" to unplanned contacts with Gene Roddenberry, the man responsible for creating Star Trek. The commonplace and the remarkable are juxtaposed to produce a lively and captivating story that has readers flipping pages with eagerness."
Read full review by Deb Patrick, TheBookReview.com

"Wisdom of Space and Time  ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Author Richards' memoir is classic storytelling through the eras. I liked the black and white photos of iconic moments coloured by the words and my imagination. I wanted to know the author beyond his external stories and he delivered his inner fears and triumphs quenching my curiosities about his life motives. I recommend this book."
--Tom Dutta, Host The Quiet Warrior Show, TedTalks speaker, Author, Business Consultant

"What a beautiful book!   ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

I returned to Solvang yesterday, following a three week absence, to find a copy of Chet's book. I could hardly wait to read it, and started flipping through some of the stories immediately. A modern epic!" 
Jeffery J. Puschell, Ph.D. Chief Scientist, Space Systems, Raytheon Intelligence & Space Division, AIAA Fellow   (American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics), SPIE Fellow    (Society of Photo Instrumentation Engineers), NASA ESTO IRIS Principal Investigator

"A Riveting Journey of a Rocket Scientist's Memoirs ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Not only is "From The Potato to Star Trek and Beyond" a memoir, but it's also an ode to a life well lived and proof that any experience—no matter how difficult—can be seen as an adventure. Chester L. Richards encourages readers to consider their own travels, discovering delight in the act of storytelling and motivation in the face of hardship. For those who are in search of a story that defies convention and provides an insight into the remarkable life of a rocket scientist who dared to go where few others have ventured, this memoir is a must-read."  Read full review

Read 48 more reviews on Amazon.com

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