"The Right Stuff" is a book by Tom Wolfe that explores the early days of the American space program, focusing on the Mercury Seven astronauts. It delves into their rigorous training, the challenges they faced, and the intense competition among them as they prepared for space missions. The narrative highlights the qualities that made these men exceptional, including bravery, skill, and determination. The book also examines the cultural and social context of the 1960s, illustrating how the space race influenced American society. It portrays the public's fascination with space exploration and the media's role in shaping the astronauts' images as heroes.