About this book
Roger Kuykendall's "We Didn't Do Anything Wrong, Hardly" is a delightfully quirky science fiction short story that captures the mischievous logic of childhood invention gone hilariously awry. Originally published in Astounding Science Fiction in 1959, this humorous tale follows a group of resourceful kids who decide to build a spaceship—complete with portholes, an air lock, and ambitious technological modifications they're convinced will actually work.
Through the rambling, defensive narration of one of the young builders, Kuykendall masterfully explores themes of curiosity, friendship, and the gap between adult expectations and youthful imagination. When the brilliant but understated Skinny Thompson convinces his friends they need to "borrow" a compressor to complete their spacecraft, their well-intentioned project spirals into a comedy of errors filled with improvised inventions and borrowed (or liberated) equipment.
This gem of vintage science fiction blends genuine warmth with sharp social commentary about how children and adults perceive the same events so differently. Kuykendall's witty storytelling celebrates the ingenuity and audacity of youth while gently poking fun at their rationalizations and justifications.
Perfect for listeners who appreciate clever, character-driven fiction with nostalgic appeal, this audiobook offers a refreshing break from contemporary sci-fi—a charming reminder that the best adventures often come from the most innocent intentions.
