46 pages • 1 hour read
The Right Stuff
A modern alternative to SparkNotes and CliffsNotes, SuperSummary offers high-quality Study Guides with detailed chapter summaries and analysis of major themes, characters, and more.
Book Brief
352
Book • Nonfiction
United States • 1960s
1979
Adult
18+ years
1110L
Super Short Summary
The Right Stuff by Tom Wolfe is a lively account of the early American space program and its roots in the subculture of military test pilots that developed after World War II, focusing on the technological advancements in mid-20th-century flight, the daring pilots who pushed innovations to their limits, and reflections on the moral, cultural, and political significance of the first astronauts at the height of the Cold War, centered on the exploits of the Mercury Seven astronauts and their quest for recognition. The book describes scenarios involving heavy drinking by test pilots.
Informative
Adventurous
Inspirational
Suspenseful
Gritty
Reviews & Readership
58,967 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
Tom Wolfe's The Right Stuff is widely praised for its compelling narrative and in-depth character portrayal, capturing the essence of the early space race. Critics commend Wolfe's vibrant writing style and meticulous research. Some feel the extensive background details slow the pace. Overall, it's a celebrated work in both literary and historical contexts.
Who Should Read The Right Stuff?
Readers who enjoy The Right Stuff by Tom Wolfe are often intrigued by historical accounts of aviation and astronautics, akin to Hidden Figures by Margot Lee Shetterly and Rocket Men by Robert Kurson. They appreciate in-depth storytelling that combines technical details with human drama, focusing on the courage and innovation of early space explorers.
58,967 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
The Mercury Seven
The Mercury Seven
The first group of American astronauts introduced by NASA in 1959, whose missions and diverse personalities create dynamic interactions as they navigate their roles and relationships with the public and each other.
John Glenn
John Glenn
A member of the Mercury Seven who becomes the first American to orbit Earth in 1962, shaping public perception of astronauts with his charisma and dedication, later serving as a US senator.
The Chief Designer
The Chief Designer
An enigmatic figure behind the Soviet space program, frequently noted for the Soviet advancements in the space race, influencing the competitive atmosphere between the US and USSR.
Pete Conrad
Pete Conrad
A test pilot introduced early in the narrative, who initially rejects part of the astronaut selection process but eventually becomes part of NASA's second group of astronauts.
President John F. Kennedy
President John F. Kennedy
The US president from 1961 to 1963, whose support for NASA and the space program grows after early successes, setting ambitious goals for American space exploration.
352
Book • Nonfiction
United States • 1960s
1979
Adult
18+ years
1110L
Continue your reading experience
Subscribe now to unlock the rest of this Study Guide plus our full library, which features expert-written summaries and analyses of 8,000+ additional titles.