French author Jean Rolin embarks on a reflective journey across France to explore the legacy of Youri Gagarine, the first human to travel into space in 1961. In his new book, Gagarine, Rolin visits various locations that commemorate the Soviet cosmonaut, tracing the places where his name is remembered in streets, monuments, and local culture. His travels take him to streets named after Gagarine, such as one that crosses the avenue Karl-Marx, and to a street that changes its name to avenue Jacques-Chirac when it crosses a municipal boundary. Rolin notes the peculiar details of these locations, from the name of a kebab shop to an abandoned gas station, a parking lot, and a small wooded path, illustrating how history is embedded in everyday spaces. Rolin recalls historical footage of the population of Ivry welcoming Gagarine and Maurice Thorez, a prominent French communist leader, describing a "double row of enthusiastic spectators" and residents watching from their windows. He analyzes the layers of history in these landscapes, noting how some areas have undergone gentrification while others are affected by drug trafficking. Through these observations, Rolin connects the past with the present, reflecting on the events that have shaped the history of these places. The author also reflects on his own youthful commitments and the passage of time, noting his own aging with self-deprecating humor. Rolin's journey takes place across the seasons, as he meticulously records minor changes, such as a bakery that has closed. He questions passers-by about their knowledge of Gagarine, revealing how the memory of the first space traveler is perceived in different communities. In these seemingly desolate places, Rolin observes new forms of political engagement and collective organization, suggesting a quiet but persistent vitality. Published by P.O.L, Gagarine is available in bookstores starting October 1st. The book offers a thoughtful exploration of memory, history, and the evolving landscapes of France, framed through the lens of one of the most significant figures of the 20th century.