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Stand by for Mars!

by Carey Rockwell (1906–1969)

  • Free to read
  • 4 hours to read
  • 22 chapters
  • Reading level: 6th grade

"Stand by for Mars!" by Carey Rockwell is a science fiction novel written in the early 1950s. The story follows Tom Corbett, an aspiring Space Cadet, as he arrives at Space Academy, where he dreams of becoming an officer in the Solar Guard. Accompanied by his new friends Astro, a strong Venusian cadet, and Roger Manning, a clever but cocky Earthling, Tom faces the rigorous training and challenges of the Academy, aiming to excel in a competitive environment filled with various personalities and aspirations. The opening of the novel introduces readers to the structured yet chaotic environment of Space Academy as Tom and fellow cadets arrive eager to embark on their journey into space. Warrant Officer McKenny, a strict and seasoned guide, sets the tone with his commanding presence, while Tom's interactions highlight the camaraderie and rivalry among the cadets. Notably, the budding friendship between Tom and Astro contrasts with Roger's arrogance, setting up a dynamic that promises both tension and growth as they navigate their training, forge their identities, and strive for success in the daunting world of space exploration.

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  • Science fiction
  • Astronauts
  • Interplanetary voyages
  • Corbett, Tom (Fictitious character)
  • Mars (Planet)

Read the opening

Chapter 1

"Stand to, you rocket wash!"

A harsh, bull-throated roar thundered over the platform of the monorail station at Space Academy and suddenly the lively chatter and laughter of more than a hundred boys was stilled. Tumbling out of the gleaming monorail cars, they froze to quick attention, their eyes turned to the main exit ramp.

They saw a short, squat, heavily built man, wearing the scarlet uniform of the enlisted Solar Guard, staring down at them, his fists jammed into his hips and his feet spread wide apart. He stood there a moment, his sharp eyes flicking over the silent clusters, then slowly sauntered down the ramp toward them with a strangely light, catfooted tread.

"Form up! Column of fours!"

Almost before the echoes of the thunderous voice died down, the scattered groups of boys had formed themselves into four ragged lines along the platform.

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Contents

  1. Chapter 1
  2. Chapter 2
  3. Chapter 3
  4. Chapter 4
  5. Chapter 5
  6. Chapter 6
  7. Chapter 7
  8. Chapter 8
  9. Chapter 9
  10. Chapter 10
  11. Chapter 11
  12. Chapter 12
  13. Chapter 13
  14. Chapter 14
  15. Chapter 15
  16. Chapter 16
  17. Chapter 17
  18. Chapter 18
  19. Chapter 19
  20. Chapter 20
  21. Chapter 21
  22. Chapter 22

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About this edition

This free edition of Stand by for Mars! by Carey Rockwell comes from Project Gutenberg eBook #19526, released 2006-10-11. It is in the public domain in the United States, so you can read it here in full at no cost, on any phone, tablet or computer. Genre: Science-Fiction & Fantasy, Novels.

Summary provided by Project Gutenberg (automatically generated).

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