Plunge into the action; and marvel at ten of the best and best-known World War II fighter aircraft!There's no shortage of fantastic archival aviation photography from World War II. But photos from the period fall short in three major categories: the vast majority are black and white; most were composed under duress; and very few capture moments that have since entered the written record of aerial conflict.Award-winning artist Jim Laurier rectifies the situation in this stunning; large-format; hardcover book celebrating World War II's top fighter aircraft. From design and weaponry to the daring tales of the pilots who flew the aircraft; Fighter! is a unique and lavishly presented look at World War II aviation through the imagination of military aviation's top artist and illustrator. The book presents chapters about ten legendary aircraft; each featuring paintings of the fighter in action; multi-view color plates (including cockpits); archival photography for context; and the stories behind the planes' design and service. The featured aircraft are: the Messerschmitt Bf 109; Hawker Hurricane; Lockheed P-38 Lightning; Mitsubishi A6M Zero; Curtiss P-40; Focke-Wulf Fw 190; Supermarine Spitfire; North American P-51; Republic P-47; and Messerschmitt Me 262.While each of Laurier's paintings and illustrations are breathtaking and technically exacting; the stories highlight key moments in battle and the nostalgia surrounding these fighters and their pilots; offering anecdotes that enhance the art's power. A complete appendix includes key statistics for each aircraft. A warbird history like no other; Fighter! brings the romance of aerial combat; the power of agile takeoffs; and the fury of deadly weapons alive on the page.
#773808 in Books Zenith Press 2004-06-04Ingredients: Example IngredientsOriginal language:EnglishPDF # 1 10.63 x .50 x 8.25l; #File Name: 0760317917160 pages
Review
2 of 2 people found the following review helpful. Great book; wish there were an updated versionBy poose182This book is comprehensive in its scope of Air Force pilot training. The pictures are breathtaking and I have yet to find another book that goes into such vivid details about what the training processes are for each type of pilot (fighter; bomber; cargo; UAV; etc.). I only wish there were an updated version because the standards for the military are constantly changing and this book was written nearly 10 years ago. All and all; it was an informative and enjoyable read for someone who dreams of being an Air Force pilot.3 of 4 people found the following review helpful. On to the Academy!By DropburyGreat book! Both my kids are working towards the Air Force Academy; and this book is great because it has a ton of picture that help with identifying aircraft! A must have for the book case!!0 of 1 people found the following review helpful. Five StarsBy Marcos OteroGood material
