Product Overview
Ordering Books for October Sky by Homer Hickam
No order minimum; you can order just one copy if that's all you need! :-) Order your class set of books for October Sky now, and take advantage of our bulk order discounts!
|  |
About the Book October Sky
October Sky by Homer H. Hickam, originally titled Rocket Boys, is a memoir that recounts the author’s youth in the coal mining town of Coalwood, West Virginia. Set in the late 1950s, the story follows young Homer “Sonny” Hickam Jr. as he becomes inspired by the launch of the Soviet satellite Sputnik to pursue amateur rocketry. The book is set in Coalwood, a small mining town where most residents, including Sonny’s father, work in the coal mines. The launch of Sputnik in 1957 sparks Sonny’s interest in rockets and space exploration.
The main characters include Sonny Hickam, the protagonist who dreams of building rockets; John Hickam, Sonny’s father and a mine superintendent who is skeptical of Sonny’s ambitions; Elsie Hickam, Sonny’s supportive mother who encourages his dreams; and Quentin Wilson, a classmate who becomes Sonny’s close friend and fellow rocket enthusiast. Sonny and his friends form the Big Creek Missile Agency (BCMA) and begin experimenting with rocket designs. They face numerous challenges, including technical failures and skepticism from the community. However, with persistence and the help of supportive teachers and townspeople, they achieve success and gain recognition.
The story highlights themes of perseverance and innovation, emphasizing the importance of determination and creativity in overcoming obstacles. It also explores the dynamics of family relationships and the role of community support in achieving one’s dreams, while underscoring the value of education and the pursuit of one’s passions. The book was adapted into a film titled “October Sky” in 1999, which brought wider recognition to Hickam’s story. It remains a popular read in schools and communities, inspiring many with its message of hope and determination.
This Page Is Under Construction
It takes a long time to gather all the data for our new book page format with more useful descriptions, themes, and activity ideas. Meanwhile, this page is active so you can order books; it just isn't quite as informative or graphically appealing as the new page will be. Thanks for understanding! :-)
Customer Service
- We guarantee you'll have the best customer service experience ever with Teacher's Pet Publications.
- We are here to help make things as easy as possible for you!
- Your information is secure. We don't keep your card number on file anywhere, and we don't sell, rent, or give away your personal information.
- We treat you as we would like to be treated as a customer!
- Need help? Have questions? We're always happy to assist you! Contact Us
