This book presents the fascinating story of the events that paved the way to space. It introduces the reader to the history of early rocketry and the subsequent developments that led into the space age. People of various nations and from various lands contributed to the breakthrough to space, and the book takes the reader to faraway places on five continents. It also includes many quotes to give readers a flavor of how the participants viewed the developments.

Humble beginnings -- Rocket proliferation, the first wave -- Under rocket fire in India -- The Congreve rocket -- Rockets come to America -- First American rockets -- Rocket proliferation, the second wave -- Public imagination on fire -- Great pioneers -- The first modern rocket -- JATO and beyond -- Building the foundation -- Road to Sputnik -- Gateways to heaven -- The breakthrough -- Opening the skies -- Joining the club -- The first thousand years.