S.I.P. 'Space Boys' #59

# "Space Boys" by W. Sampas (Ediciones Toray, 1961)

This Spanish science fiction serial follows juvenile delinquency on Mars. Set nearly a century in the future on New City, Mars (eight million inhabitants), the narrative centers on fifteen-year-old Claude Oris, member of a three-boy gang including leader Jean Melain and newcomer Pierre Santal. The "Astronautas"—self-named youth gangs—exploit absent parents working in northern industrial zones and relaxed school oversight. Claude attends school only Mondays for roll call. The plot initiates when Claude encounters Paola Lorini, an attractive girl whose brother Pietro belongs to the rival "Americanos" gang led by fourteen-year-old Joe Porter. Paola flirts with Claude and demands he steal a 100-credit skirt from "William's" store to prove his manhood, though he possesses only five credits. The narrative depicts gang hierarchy, casual criminality, inadequate adult supervision, and youthful social dynamics. A Spacial International Police force and youth protection laws restrict punishments for minors.