Extensively researched, First in Space is based on the true-life
adventures of Ham, a chimpanzee the Americans trained for the first sub orbital
flight. The story follows his training and experiences through the launch, as
well as those of the other chimps and trainers involved. Because it is Ham's
exciting adventure, it is told primarily through his eyes, along with anecdotal
information that provides a snapshot of that time in America's conquest of
space.