America from the Air: An Aviator's Story (American Land Classics)

This book is a great read, and gives a great perspective about the early ages of private piloting for leasure. Much about the author is learned from the preface, and the book itself reinforces that characterisation. The last chapter in particular, although slightly repetitive of the previous chapters (or vice-versa) and in seemingly written in more hurried style, shows the observation skills of Wolfgang Langewiesche. Interestingly, the revolution that the author describes as happened in the 1930's with the coming of the Piper Cub, is being repeated during the last 10 years or so. The coming of very low-cost aircraft, with slightly less-reliable engines and easy field requirements, is presently happening with microlight or Light Sport Aircraft flying. This book is especially a thrill for those pilots. With strong emotions and vivid descriptions, the book relates of cross-country flying, the X-factor and the power of the view from above.

If you love flying and America... it's a must!Well written and a pleasure to read. A perfect description of a lying era.