William Shatner investigates the cultural impact and production history of the original Star Trek series through the lens of his own experience as its lead actor. Shatner utilizes his unique position as Captain James T. Kirk to synthesize personal anecdotes, production logs, and reflections on the show's transition from a struggling television program to a global cultural phenomenon. The book serves as both a retrospective on the creative process and a detailed record of the challenges faced by the cast and crew during the show's initial run and subsequent film adaptations.

The text offers a candid, insider perspective on the development of a television icon, providing significant value for those interested in the history of media production. Its blend of personal narrative and technical show documentation establishes it as a primary source for understanding the early Star Trek era.