In the book and film ‘October Sky’, Homer Hickam’s hero is his father, John Hickam. Though their relationship is complicated and fraught with tension, John’s strong work ethic and determination shape Homer’s ambitions.
Throughout the story, Homer looks up to his father, who is a coal miner and embodies the values of hard work and perseverance. However, John’s focus on Homer following in his footsteps as a miner creates conflict, as Homer dreams of becoming a rocket scientist. This clash between their aspirations ultimately drives much of the narrative.
By the end, Homer’s journey is not just about pursuing his dreams of rocketry but also about understanding his father’s sacrifices and ideals. The relationship evolves, leading Homer to appreciate the qualities in his father that inspired him, despite the initial friction. In this way, John Hickam stands as a hero to Homer, representing both the challenges he faced and the motivation to reach for the stars.