Starman Jones

This book was written in the early 50's, yet the story line wasn't too badly dated. It was a straight through space adventure. Heinlein's right leaning politics flashed through occasionally, but that was a sign of the times.

The story itself revolved around a young Max Jones left pretty much on his own after his father died. His step mother apparently wasn't the family type, as she didn't do much to help around the farm that was left them. When she shows up with Max's new step father, things deteriorate rather quickly and Max runs away. His only plan was to go into space, as his Uncle was an astrogator and had promised Max that he'd recommend him. However, Max's Uncle died before he could fill out the paperwork. Max had met Sam on his travels and after a skirmish involving Sam stealing Max's ID and trying to take his spot, they eventually become friends. Sam finagles their way on board a starship heading out, as lowly crew members. And from there the story starts escalating.