Spacewalking is a physically exhausting, mentally rigorous endeavor. It is so difficult, only three Canadians have ever succeeded: Chris Hadfield, Steve MacLean, and Dave Williams. Hadfield completed the first Canadian spacewalk and installed the Canadarm 2 on the International Space Station, while Williams holds the record for the longest spacewalk by a Canadian. And Steve MacLean, former head of the Canadian Space Agency, was one of Canada’s original six astronauts.

But what is it really like to leap out into space with only the thin fabric of your suit between you and the universe? In Canadian Spacewalkers, author Bob McDonald compiles each of the spacewalkers’ perspectives and presents an extensive, one-on-one interview with spacewalkers who tell tales of training underwater in the world’s largest swimming pool describe the moment when they first stepped outside. Science journalist McDonald also shares his own experiences with astronaut training: the almost-reality of simulators, the sensory deprivation of the spacesuit, and even a zero-g airplane ride.

Lushly illustrated with stunning NASA photos, Canadian Spacewalkers inspires, astounds, and surprises. This is the gripping first-hand story of unique adventurers — in their own words.