The Sky on Fire: The First Battle of Britain, 1917-1918

As I sit here watching the early missle/air war against Baghdad in March, 2003, I want to contact the news broadcasters to give them information that I learned from this book.I read this book 20 years ago from the library and have wanted to re-read it ever since. (I'm going to order a copy today.)Well written. Very informative. Highly recommended.

Have you ever bought a book because you were interested in the subject matter, only to realize upon reading the first chapter that the writer does not know how to entertain? If you have, then brace yourself, because this book is NOT like that. The author filled each chapter with relevant insights into the characters that make up the events. Not once was I overpowered by facts alone. I have read highly praised novels that lacked the emotion, suspense, etc, that this book displays. To top it off, the author writes with unbelievable knoweldge of a subject that is too often overlooked: the implications of the First Battle of Britian.

I have the original hardback edition of this book, and found it to be very well researched and written. Besides the history of the great German biplane bombers, it explains the frustration of England in developing a defense against this new type of warfare. Also, the fight in the English government to establish an independant Air Force is also discussed. An interesting read for history students or aviation enthusiasts.

As an air defense pilot 1954-1970 with a hobby of military history I thought the book well researched and detailed and instills in the reader what it was like back then in a hostile sky. I have read the book several times and still find it fascinating. Walt (BJ) Bjorneby Lt/Col, USAF, (Ret), pilot F86/F102/F104/F4