Planetary Radio • Jun 19, 2026
Book Club Edition: “To Be Taught, If Fortunate” with Becky Chambers
On This Episode
Becky Chambers
Science Fiction Author
Mat Kaplan
Senior Communications Adviser and former Host of Planetary Radio for The Planetary Society
This outstanding novella, “To Be Taught, If Fortunate” by award-winning science fiction author Becky Chambers, is a passionate argument for the human exploration of space and the wonders we will find there. Kirkus Reviews calls it, “An extraordinary picture of humanity among the stars.” Join host Mat Kaplan for a conversation with Becky in which her personal enthusiasm for space science matches that of her four wandering explorers. The very alien lifeforms they discover amplify their own, very human failings and triumphs. Questions submitted by The Planetary Society’s members were a valuable contribution to this live event presented in our member community.


