Military Aircraft of WWII

Like its WWI companion piece, Ole Steen Hansen's MILITARY AIRCRAFT OF WWII introduces young readers to the history of air combat circa 1939-45. And, like the earlier book, it presents a marvelously-illustrated, easy-to-understand and balanced summary of brave men engaged in deadly combat. Following the STORY OF FLIGHT format, MILITARY AIRCRAFT OF WWII covers its subject with chapters on "Battle of Britain," "War in the Desert," "Women at War," "Night Bombers," "War over Germany," "The First Jets," and so on. Developments, tactics and weapons are explained simply but effectively and are complimented by the nicely-done color artwork, vintage photographs and aircraft profiles. I have to say some of the combat scenes are very well-done. And, again, air combat isn't glorified but shown to be a grim business resulting in death and destruction. All in all, it's a winning combination that should appeal to readers 9-12 years old.

We got this book for our 8 year old grandson who loves old aircraft. It is perfect for him he pours over the details of the aircraft which are amply illustrated in the book. The text is also perfect for him; he comprehends the entire book. We're so glad we found this book for him.

This is a wonderful addition to the great series The Story of Flight published by the Crabtree Publishing Compant. This thin, 32 page volume holds a surprisingly large amount of information and the illustrations are wonderful. After a brief introduction, the book covers The Battle of Briain, War in the Desert, Woment at War, War in the Pacific, Reconnaissance, Night Bombers, Precision Bombing, Transporters, War Over Germany, D-Day, The First jets, Rocket Power. In additon it includes a nice little "spotters' guide along with a well done Glossary. The book covers the planes used by both sides of this horrible conflict, giving a brief description of all the most common planes in use. The illustratios in this work, which are many, are well executed and the text is quite accurate and written at the level where it can be understood by the young reader. There are many small side articles concerning leading men who developed, flew and lived with these planes. To parents: This is the volume in this series that deals with war, plain and simple. Parents should be aware of this when making their choice for their children. It is though, history. While war is a horrible thing, something that should be avoided, it never-the-less is a part of our history, and sadly, quite likely a part of our future. The more information we have about it, the greater the likelihood of avoiding it. This book does not in any way glamourize war, but neither is it a bold statement against. It merely tells the facts. Highly recommend this one.