An old SF classic
A classic. Vintage science fiction. Bought this for my 10 year old nephew, who, despite the delights of Star Wars, really likes the old SF classics. He finished the book less than 24 hours after he received it.
Basically, a young inventor creates a plane that can hover, as well as fly regularly. The plane is equipped with a variety of laboratories, suitable for any need that might come up while exploring. Add in a mystery with strange radioactivity and some bad guys, and you have the start of an enjoyable series.