Hardback cover (printed directly on the cover) of Tom Swift and His Flying Lab, part of The New Tom Swift Jr. Adventures, written by Victor Appleton II. The artwork is a striking mid-century illustration featuring Tom Swift, a young, clean-cut, blond-haired protagonist with a confident smile. He wears a short-sleeved, collared shirt with blue and white stripes, embodying the all-American boy-inventor archetype. His expression is one of enthusiasm and curiosity, fitting for the adventurous spirit of the series.
Behind Tom is the centerpiece of the cover—the Flying Lab, a futuristic aircraft with a sleek silver body and an aerodynamic design. The plane has a long, pointed nose, wide wings, and a curved, streamlined fuselage, giving it a distinctly advanced appearance. It also features rows of rivets and what appears to be an array of scientific instruments or mechanical features along its body. A set of rocket-like thrusters or engines emits a bright, fiery exhaust, suggesting high speed and cutting-edge propulsion technology. The background consists of a cosmic scene with deep blues and purples, depicting swirling clouds and a star-studded sky, reinforcing the book's theme of scientific exploration and technological progress.