“I was born on a Tuesday. The day after Monday, the day before Wednesday.”
— Protagonist Ryan Maxwell's opening line, establishing his straightforward, almost literal perspective.
Archivist's Choice
Getting Air
Dan Gutman (2007)
Genre
Thriller / Children's / Young Adult
Reading Time
240 min
Key Themes
See below
Track Your Reading
Sign in to track this book
Three skate-obsessed best friends expecting a summer of California half-pipes instead find themselves battling terrorists mid-flight, only to crash-land into a harrowing fight for survival in the wilderness.
Synopsis
Twelve-year-old best friends Jimmy, David, and Henry are excited for their summer trip to California, envisioning endless days of skateboarding. Their excitement is shattered when their flight is hijacked by terrorists. Despite their fear, the three boys intervene, thwarting the terrorists' plan. However, their heroic act results in a catastrophic plane crash in a remote wilderness. Now, instead of skate parks and summer fun, the boys face a desperate fight for survival. They must navigate the harsh environment, find food, water, and shelter, and overcome challenges, including their own conflicts and fears, all while hoping for rescue. Their journey tests their resourcefulness, friendship, and resilience as they strive to return to civilization.
Reading time
240 min
Difficulty
Easy
Pacing
Fast
Mood
Suspenseful, Adventurous, Tense, Hopeful
✓ Read this if...
You enjoy fast-paced adventure stories with young protagonists facing extraordinary circumstances and survival challenges.
✗ Skip this if...
You are looking for deep character development or a story without intense peril, or if you are sensitive to themes of terrorism and plane crashes.
Plot Summary
Summer Plans and a Flight to California
Twelve-year-old best friends Jimmy, David, and Henry are excited for their summer vacation. Their parents have arranged for them to fly from New Jersey to San Diego, California, for a month-long skateboarding trip. Jimmy, the protagonist, looks forward to visiting legendary skate parks and potentially meeting professional skaters. Henry, the most cautious of the group, is nervous about flying, while David, the most impulsive, is eager for adventure. Their excitement is clear as they board their flight, chatting about their ambitious skating plans and the freedom that awaits them on the West Coast, unaware of the danger ahead.
The Hijacking Begins
Mid-flight, while the boys are watching a movie, a commotion erupts. Two men, later identified as terrorists, emerge from the back of the plane. One, a large, menacing figure, has a knife, while the other, smaller and more nervous, carries what appears to be a bomb. They quickly overpower the flight attendants and storm the cockpit, announcing to the terrified passengers that the plane has been hijacked. The passengers, including Jimmy, David, and Henry, are ordered to remain in their seats, their initial shock turning to fear as the reality of their situation sinks in. The boys huddle, whispering about what to do.
The Boys' Risky Plan
Overhearing the terrorists' intentions to crash the plane into a major landmark, the boys realize they cannot simply wait for help. Driven by fear and a sense of responsibility, they hatch a daring plan to overpower the hijackers. Jimmy, known for his quick thinking, suggests they use their small size and agility. David, the daredevil, volunteers to create a diversion, while Henry, despite his nervousness, agrees to assist. Their plan involves surprise and distraction, hoping to catch the terrorists off guard and prevent a catastrophe. They communicate their plan in hushed tones, the weight of their decision heavy on their young shoulders.
Confrontation in the Cabin
As the plane flies over a remote, mountainous region, the boys put their plan into action. David creates a diversion by faking a medical emergency, drawing the attention of the smaller terrorist. While the terrorist is distracted, Jimmy and Henry stealthily approach the larger hijacker. A chaotic struggle ensues in the narrow aisle. Jimmy, using his skateboarding balance, manages to trip the larger terrorist, while Henry, surprisingly brave, grabs at the smaller one. The other passengers, initially stunned, begin to stir, some attempting to help, others frozen in fear. The fight is intense, with the boys using every ounce of their strength and cunning.
A Pyrrhic Victory and a Crash Landing
The boys, with the help of a few brave passengers, subdue the terrorists. However, in the chaos, the cockpit door is damaged, and the plane's controls are compromised. The pilot, struggling to regain control, announces that they are going down. Panic erupts among the passengers as the plane violently descends. Jimmy, David, and Henry brace for impact, their earlier triumph replaced by terror. The plane crashes into a dense, unknown wilderness, far from any signs of civilization. The impact is immense, and when the dust settles, the boys emerge from the wreckage, miraculously alive but stranded in the middle of nowhere.
Stranded in the Wilderness
After the crash, Jimmy, David, and Henry find themselves among a handful of dazed survivors. The plane is a mangled wreck, and the surrounding environment is a vast, untouched wilderness of dense trees and rugged terrain. The initial shock gives way to the daunting realization of their predicament: they are completely cut off from the outside world. There is no cell phone service, no roads, and no immediate signs of rescue. They quickly assess their meager resources and the condition of the other survivors, including a flight attendant and a gruff businessman. The boys, despite their age, feel a burden of responsibility, knowing their survival now depends on their resourcefulness.
The Search for Shelter and Supplies
Under the unofficial leadership of the flight attendant, Ms. Davis, the survivors begin to organize. Their immediate priorities are finding shelter, water, and any usable supplies from the plane's wreckage. Jimmy, with his practical mind, helps scout the immediate area, while David, energetic, assists in sifting through the debris. Henry, though still anxious, helps gather wood. They manage to salvage some blankets, first-aid supplies, and a few scattered food items. The gruff businessman, Mr. Henderson, initially skeptical, eventually contributes his knowledge of knots and basic survival skills. The harsh reality of their situation forces them to quickly adapt and cooperate.
Challenges and Conflicts
Days turn into a grueling routine of survival. Food and water become scarce, and the constant threat of wild animals and the unknown wilderness takes a toll on everyone's morale. The boys, used to their comfortable lives, struggle with the primitive conditions, missing fast food and video games. Tensions rise among the adult survivors, with Mr. Henderson often clashing with Ms. Davis over leadership and strategy. Jimmy, David, and Henry, despite their own fears and disagreements, try to maintain hope and purpose, often acting as a bridge between the adults. They learn to hunt for berries and set simple traps, adapting to their new reality.
A Glimmer of Hope
During one of their foraging expeditions, Jimmy, David, and Henry stumble upon a faint, overgrown trail. It is barely visible, but it offers a glimmer of hope that they might not be entirely isolated. They follow it for a short distance, finding what appears to be an old, disused logging road. Excited, they rush back to inform the other survivors. Ms. Davis, while cautious, recognizes this as their best chance for rescue. Mr. Henderson, seeing the boys' determination, agrees to help clear the path. This discovery boosts the group's morale, fueling their resolve to keep moving forward.
The Journey Out
With new determination, the small group of survivors begins their arduous trek along the rediscovered trail. The journey is incredibly difficult, with steep inclines, treacherous terrain, and dwindling supplies. Henry, exhausted and afraid, struggles to keep up, but Jimmy and David encourage him, reminding him of their goal. They face challenges like crossing a swollen river and navigating through dense thickets. The adults, particularly Ms. Davis, commend the boys' resilience and ingenuity. They learn to rely on each other, sharing their last scraps of food and offering emotional support, forging a strong bond in the face of adversity.
Signs of Civilization
After what feels like an eternity, the group stumbles upon a clear sign of civilization: an old, abandoned hunting cabin. Though dilapidated, it provides a crucial morale boost. Inside, they find some rusty tools and a tattered map of the local area. The map, though old, confirms their suspicions that they are indeed in a remote, but not entirely uncharted, region. More importantly, it shows a nearby river that could lead to a larger settlement. The cabin is a temporary refuge, allowing them to rest and strategize their next move, their hopes for rescue soaring as they realize they are getting closer.
Rescue and Reflection
Following the map, the survivors continue their journey along the river. After another day of travel, they hear the distant sound of a helicopter. Frantically, they light a signal fire and wave their arms. The helicopter spots them, and soon, rescue workers descend, bringing food, water, and medical attention. The boys are reunited with their overjoyed parents, who had feared the worst. While their summer skateboarding trip was completely derailed, Jimmy, David, and Henry return home as heroes, forever changed by their harrowing experience. They have learned invaluable lessons about survival, friendship, and their own inner strength, realizing that true courage is not just about landing tricks on a half-pipe.
Principal Figures
Jimmy
The Protagonist
Jimmy transforms from a typical pre-teen focused on skateboarding to a resourceful and responsible leader, discovering his inner strength and capacity for survival.
David
The Supporting
David learns to channel his impulsiveness into constructive action, becoming a reliable and brave member of the survival team.
Henry
The Supporting
Henry overcomes his deep-seated fears to find unexpected courage and resilience, contributing significantly to the group's survival.
Ms. Davis
The Supporting
Ms. Davis demonstrates unwavering leadership and compassion under extreme duress, becoming a vital figure in the survivors' ordeal.
Mr. Henderson
The Supporting
Mr. Henderson evolves from a cynical individualist to a contributing member of the group, demonstrating the importance of cooperation and revealing hidden depths.
Terrorist 1 (Large Man)
The Antagonist
A static antagonist whose actions trigger the main conflict, ultimately subdued by the protagonists.
Terrorist 2 (Smaller Man)
The Antagonist
A static antagonist whose less confident nature makes him vulnerable to the protagonists' intervention.
Themes & Insights
Courage in the Face of Adversity
Ordinary individuals, particularly young boys, find extraordinary courage when confronted with extreme danger. Jimmy, David, and Henry, initially just wanting a fun summer, are forced to confront terrorists and then survive a plane crash. Their decision to act against the hijackers, despite their fear, shows their budding bravery. Later, in the wilderness, they consistently push past their anxieties and physical discomforts to contribute to the group's survival. This shows that courage is not the absence of fear, but the ability to act in spite of it. This is clear in Henry's gradual overcoming of his timidity and David's channeling of his impulsiveness into helpful action.
“"We can't just sit here and let them do this. Someone has to do something!"”
The Power of Friendship and Cooperation
The deep bond between Jimmy, David, and Henry is central to their survival. Their ability to trust each other, combine their individual strengths, and support one another through moments of fear and despair is crucial. Their plan to take on the hijackers relies entirely on their coordinated effort. In the wilderness, their friendship helps them maintain morale, share resources, and encourage each other when exhaustion sets in. This theme extends to the broader group of survivors, as they learn that cooperation, even among disparate personalities like Ms. Davis and Mr. Henderson, is essential for overcoming the challenges of their predicament.
“"We're in this together, guys. Always."”
Loss of Innocence and Rapid Maturation
The boys begin their journey as typical twelve-year-olds, excited about skateboarding and carefree summer fun. The hijacking and crash abruptly strip them of their innocence, forcing them to confront adult dangers and responsibilities. They quickly learn about life-or-death situations, the realities of survival, and the need for resourcefulness. Their priorities shift from skate parks and video games to finding food, water, and shelter. This ordeal accelerates their maturation, making them more resilient, self-reliant, and appreciative of the simple comforts they once took for granted, fundamentally changing their perspective on life.
“"This isn't exactly the California summer we planned."”
Resourcefulness and Adaptability
Once stranded, the survivors, especially the boys, must quickly adapt to their new, hostile environment. They are forced to become resourceful, using whatever limited supplies they can salvage from the plane and learning to forage for food and water. Jimmy's ability to think strategically, David's physical prowess, and even Henry's cautious observations contribute to finding solutions. From building makeshift shelters to discovering a forgotten trail, their capacity to think creatively and adapt to unforeseen challenges is paramount to their survival. This theme highlights the human capacity to overcome obstacles through ingenuity and resilience.
“"We'll have to make do with what we've got."”
Plot Devices & Literary Techniques
Inciting Incident
The hijacking of the plane.
The hijacking serves as the primary inciting incident, immediately thrusting the protagonists into a life-threatening situation. It shatters their carefree summer plans and sets in motion a chain of events that leads to the plane crash and their subsequent struggle for survival. This event transforms the narrative from a simple vacation story into a thrilling adventure, forcing the boys to confront immediate danger and make critical decisions that define their character and the plot's direction.
Man vs. Nature Conflict
The struggle against the wilderness.
After the initial conflict with the hijackers, the story pivots to a 'Man vs. Nature' conflict. The vast, untamed wilderness becomes the primary antagonist, presenting challenges like lack of food and water, extreme weather, dangerous animals, and the sheer isolation. This device highlights the survivors' resourcefulness and resilience as they battle against the elements, forcing them to learn basic survival skills and cooperate to overcome the natural world's indifference to their plight.
Coming-of-Age Journey
The boys' transition from childhood to maturity.
The entire ordeal acts as a coming-of-age journey for Jimmy, David, and Henry. They start as innocent pre-teens and are forced to mature rapidly through extreme circumstances. They face adult responsibilities, make life-or-death decisions, and develop an understanding of resilience, cooperation, and their own inner strength. This device allows the reader to witness their transformation, highlighting how extraordinary events can forge character and accelerate personal growth far beyond what typical childhood experiences would provide.
False Sense of Security
The initial excitement for a summer vacation.
The story begins with the boys' immense excitement for a fun, carefree summer skateboarding trip to California. This initial mood of joy and anticipation creates a strong 'false sense of security,' making the sudden, brutal reality of the hijacking even more shocking and impactful. The stark contrast between their innocent dreams and the terrifying reality of the situation amplifies the drama and emphasizes the unexpected nature of the threats they face, immediately hooking the reader into the unfolding peril.
Critical analysis
Notable Quotes
“I didn't want to be a hero. I just wanted to go home.”
— Ryan's internal thought during a dangerous situation, highlighting his reluctance for adventure despite being thrust into one.
“Sometimes the most ordinary people do the most extraordinary things.”
— A reflection on Ryan's journey, recognizing the unexpected capabilities of an average kid.
“Fear is a funny thing. It can make you run, or it can make you fight.”
— Ryan's contemplation on his own fear and how it motivates different responses.
“The world is full of bad guys, but it's also full of good guys.”
— A simple but profound observation made by Ryan about the balance of good and evil he encounters.
“It's amazing how much you can learn when you're trying to save your own life.”
— Ryan's realization about the accelerated learning curve under duress.
“You never know what you're capable of until you have no choice.”
— A key theme of the book, as Ryan discovers his own hidden strengths in extreme circumstances.
“Being smart doesn't always mean you know all the answers. Sometimes it means you know how to ask the right questions.”
— A character's advice to Ryan, emphasizing critical thinking over rote knowledge.
“Even a small lie can grow into something huge and dangerous.”
— A warning about the consequences of deceit, as experienced by the characters.
“Adventure isn't something you look for. It's something that finds you.”
— Ryan's conclusion about how he became embroiled in a thrilling adventure.
“”
— A tactic used by characters, highlighting the cleverness required in their predicament.
“”
— A recurring idea as secrets are gradually uncovered throughout the plot.
“It's easy to judge people when you don't know their story.”
— A moment of empathy and understanding from Ryan, learning not to jump to conclusions.
“Home isn't just a place. It's the feeling of being safe.”
— Ryan's deeper understanding of what 'home' truly means after his perilous journey.
Quiz
Test Your Knowledge
Ready to see how well you understood this book? Take our interactive quiz with 10 questions.
10
Questions
~5
Minutes
?
Best Score
Key Questions (FAQ)
The book 'Getting Air' follows three twelve-year-old best friends, Jimmy, David, and Henry, who are flying to California for a summer of skateboarding. Their vacation takes a drastic turn when their plane is hijacked by terrorists, leading to a crash landing in a remote, uninhabited area, forcing them to survive in the wilderness.
About the author
Dan Gutman is a prolific author known for his engaging middle-grade fiction. His breakout success, "Getting Air," is a testament to his ability to connect with young readers through relatable characters and exciting narratives. Gutman's extensive body of work often explores themes of sports, adventure, and everyday life with humor and heart.
