Narrative Nonfiction/Inspirational
Date Published: August 4th, 2026
Publisher: Acorn Publishing
On the beaches of Southern California, Ken Kisco learned that preparation saves lives. From rip-current rescues to split-second emergencies, he discovered that courage is not the absence of fear, but the decision to act in spite of it. Those early lessons in resilience and composure pushed Ken to believe he could accomplish anything . . . including his lifelong dream of reaching the stars.
Through relentless perseverance and unwavering faith, Ken rose into the heart of America’s most advanced space and defense programs, contributing to human spaceflight initiatives and supporting groundbreaking technologies. His unusual start as a lifeguard helped advance his career, distinguishing him from his Air Force and Navy peers. Yet, his toughest challenges were personal—he faced deep disappointment when a space mission was canceled and learned lessons about trust and integrity from a romance-turned-ruse.
Ken’s journey reveals that success is rarely linear. Setbacks became launchpads, adversity became refinement, and purpose became a compass. Part memoir, part inspiration, and part behind-the-scenes look at America’s quest for the stars, this is the unforgettable story of a man who proves that bold dreams, combined with grit and heart, can launch an ordinary life into an extraordinary one.
Interview with Ken Kisco
Author of No Straight Lines to the Stars
Do you have a routine or something you do to get you in the mood to write?
I don't have a strict writing routine. Before I begin, I usually spend a few quiet moments reflecting on the memories I want to share and the lessons they taught me. Since No Straight Lines to the Stars is based on real experiences, my goal is to relive those moments honestly and write from the heart.
Do you have a special song, drink, or food you enjoy while you are writing?
A good cup of coffee is usually all I need. I prefer a quiet environment where I can focus without distractions. Occasionally, I'll listen to soft instrumental music, but more often than not, it's the memories themselves that set the tone for my writing.
How do you know what to write?
For me, the story came first. I asked myself, "What experiences have shaped my life, and what lessons might encourage others?" Rather than simply recounting events, I wanted each chapter to offer a meaningful takeaway. If a story could inspire someone to persevere, dream bigger, or embrace life's unexpected turns, then I knew it belonged in the book.
What does a typical writing day look like for you?
I usually begin by reviewing what I wrote the previous day before adding anything new. Some days the words flow easily, while other days I spend more time refining a single paragraph than writing several pages.
Do you do anything special to celebrate after writing “the end”?
Finishing the manuscript was certainly a milestone, but I viewed it as the beginning of another journey. Editing, working with my publisher, reviewing cover designs, and preparing for publication became the next chapter. The real celebration will always be hearing from readers whose lives were touched by the story.
How long does it take you to write a book?
This memoir took several years to complete. Writing was only part of the process. I spent countless hours reflecting on experiences, verifying details, organizing the timeline, and refining each chapter to ensure the story flowed naturally while remaining authentic.
What is the most difficult part of writing a book?
The hardest part was deciding what to leave out. Life is filled with experiences, but not every story belongs in a book. My challenge was choosing the moments that best illustrated the central message of No Straight Lines to the Stars: that life's greatest opportunities often come from unexpected paths, and that perseverance can take us farther than we ever imagined.
As an aerospace systems engineer for NASA, Rockwell International, and Boeing, he developed new technologies and earned recognition as an American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics (AIAA) Fellow.
Ken now shares his passion by mentoring USC engineering students, inspiring them to dream boldly. When not traveling, he and his wife enjoy San Diego's beaches, where they live.
Instagram: @Kennasaman
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