The Light Stuff: Space Humor-From Sputnik to Shuttle

by Bob Ward, Walter Cronkite (Introduction)

by Bob Ward, Former Editor of the Huntsville Times Newspaper With an Introduction by Walter Cronkite;>
This is a "Special Edition from the U.S. Pavilion World's Fair 1982 featuring the famed and respected Walter Cronkite's opening remarks...Bob Ward...has collected hundreds of the Space Era's choicest anecdotes, bons mots, putdowns, puns, and pranks, many outrageous." Offered here is a signed and inscribed First very good condition paperback;corner crease to light shelf wear;295 pp; c.1982 pbl. Jester Books; all text pages clean, intact; spine tight, square, secure.

295 pages, Mass Market Paperback

About the author

A former editor-in-chief of The Huntsville Times, Bob Ward covered the von Braun rocket team as a reporter.

Reviews

[William O. Robertson · Rating 3 out of 5]

A humorous look at the early days of the U.S. space program, this book shares lighthearted shenanigans involving astronauts, management, contractors, and even the news media. It offers a broad overview of the program’s evolution leading up to the Space Shuttle era, presenting a refreshing contrast to the usual seriousness associated with space travel. The author highlights how humor often played a role in easing tension in a high-stakes environment.

That said, not all of the anecdotes land equally well. Some come across as corny, and others feel dated, reflecting attitudes and sensibilities that haven’t aged particularly well.

ADDENDUM: Just a note. Finished the book as the Artemis II crew is returning from orbiting the moon. April 10, 2026