In the history of children’s television the exploits of International Rescue, or the Thunderbirds as they are better known, are legendary.
Across its short television run and subsequent afterlife in re-runs, films, merchandise and affectionate parodies, the race-against-time puppet series showcased extraordinary technology and daring-do, making each episode feel like a miniature movie. Despite debuting nearly fifty years ago, the show’s appeal endures today with both fans and children alike.
Lovingly crafted, this Agents’ Technical Manual covers all the major elements of the show from Tracey Island itself through to all the major Thunderbird machines and support vehicles, such as the Mole and Lady Penelope’s Pink Rolls Royce FAB1.
After a brief introduction from the author, the book remains firmly rooted within its fictional world. The essay ‘Welcome to 1965’ sets the scene well, drawing from elements of the series to place the technology in its environment; a place where atomic power fuels mass transport systems, satellite technology provides global communications and ambitious technical projects push the boundaries of human endeavour.
For every machine, the guide provides a comprehensive profile with impressively detailed cutaway diagrams and a frankly breathtaking level of detail. Each has been analysed with logical explanations provided to support what appeared on screen. Where did the second couch come from to replace the one that took Alan to Thunderbird 3? This book has the answer.
The personnel of International Rescue get profiled alongside their regular rides too, collecting some personal information to support their role. The manual even manages some gentle asides to encompass that take in the Tiger Moth Biplane Thunderbird 6 and even the much-maligned 2004 live action feature film prequel, which does not sit happily with the series continuity.
In the rear of the book, a Mission Files section acts as an episode guide, though the decision to make it alphabetical by story title rather than chronological is a little baffling and it does feel as somewhat of an afterthought.
With other titles in the Haynes range including USS Enterprise, the Millennium Falcon and the inventions of Wallace and Gromit, one wonders what took them so long? From new fans to the most ardent Anderson enthusiast, this manual will doubtless be a must have and possibly the ideal Father’s Day present too. F.A.B!
Published on Thursday 7th June 2012 by J H Haynes & Co Ltd.
> Buy the Thunderbirds Complete Series DVD boxset on Amazon.
What are your favourite memories of Thunderbirds? Let us know below…