This book gives a view of nearly a century of American life-a century of astounding changes in technology and upheavals in social values starting in the 1920s. The story is seen through the eyes of one individual: first, a boy growing up in the South during the depths of the Great Depression, then a young man working his way through college, serving in World War II, and launching into a career of astonishing variety. Episodes range from boyhood and wartime adventures to scenes in academia and events at the top levels of government in technical work for the United States Department of Defense and the White House. Owning and managing a factory, designing contemporary houses, playing a role in management of symphony orchestras, sailing to the South Pacific, winning highly competitive ocean races-all these are elements of a life reported with keen observation and humor.