"How do you create a controlled explosion and harness that power for the benefit of humankind? Meet the visionary physicists, chemists, engineers, and entertainers (as well as mice, bears, tortoises, and more) who took rockets from illuminations in the sky to the most powerful vehicles ever known. You'll also find out how using a gyroscope, swinging on a swing set, and spraying water from a garden hose are the keys to understanding space travel"--Page [4] of cover.

What makes rockets go -- Rockets as entertainment -- Rockets in warfare -- Rockets inventors -- Rockets in the space race -- Rockets in exploration -- The future of rockets.