This memoir series delves into the life of a small coal mining community in the heart of West Virginia. Authors share compelling stories of childhood, friendship, and the pursuit of dreams within an environment shaped by the coal industry. It offers a nostalgic look at rural America and the resilience of the human spirit in the face of adversity.
Rocket Boys is a bestselling memoir by NASA engineer Homer Hickam, recounting his coming-of-age in a West Virginia mining town during the 1960s. It captures a mother's love, a father's fears, and the dreams of young men launching rockets. This lyrical story of triumph, romance, and loss inspired the film October Sky.
Set in a West Virginia hometown, the narrative explores the impact of time and change on its unique way of life. Homer Hickam, known for his bestselling memoirs, weaves a rich and unforgettable tale that delves into the essence of his community, capturing its struggles and resilience amid evolving circumstances. Through vivid storytelling, he brings to life the intricacies of his upbringing and the enduring spirit of the people around him.
The author continues the story of his life with an account of the summer of 1961, which marked the end of his first year of college and the beginning of his dreams to leave his hometown of Coalwood behind