Barnstormer

"Barnstormer" by Tom W. Harris is a science fiction story set in a time when space travel is new and thrilling. It centers around a kid named Pete, who is fascinated by the idea of flying in rockets and the daring pilots who take people up for rides. The story looks at themes like adventure and following your dreams, but also shows how different generations can have different ideas about exploring space, particularly through Pete's family, who is afraid of the dangers. Pete is excited by Murph Vanderpool, a barnstormer, and his cool glass rocket called the Hester. Even though his mom and grandma worry about him getting hurt, Pete really wants to be a spaceman and go on adventures. He tries to find ways to do what he loves while also dealing with his family's rules, showing how much he wants to fly and be part of a future where anything is possible. The journey captures a young boy's desire to reach for the stars despite the fears some people have about space.