stunning portraits, moving stories, more please!
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I found this book beautifully presented, with stunning photography by the author, - it was wonderful to hear the airmens' stories, and to find out what happened (briefly) in later life. I saw the author/photographer with two of these heroes on television, James's sincerity in wanting to pay tribute to the bravery & modesty of these men came across strongly.
I think this is an incredibly special book.
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Stunning portraits and amazing stories
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Brought this book after seeing it reviewed in the Sunday Times. Do not agree with the negative review of this book written below (which incidentally was written before the book was published!), and doubt very much that the interviews took place over the phone, Eckersey is a portrait photographer - did he take the photos over the phone too?
Stunning photography - how good to see a book which celebrates the older generation. Amazing stories too - very humbling to read what these chaps went through as youngsters. Highly recommended to young and old alike - I will be showing it to my Grandchildren.
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Not a Good Idea...
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I have read the book, am a published author/historian on the Battle of Britain, and have just spent the weekend with a large number of the pilots. Whilst I am aware that Eckersley wrote the text I still agree with the review entitled 'A Book to Haunt ...' There are indeed a large number of inaccuracies in the text which with basic research could have been avoided. I am also aware of at least four of those who appear in the book who are pretty unhappy with their portrait and wished they hadn't taken part. That said, the author is clearly a gifted photographer but, due to the nature of the people involved, has chosen the wrong subject.
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Try reading it
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The photos and the words are all done by james apart from the bit by the Duke. The person who has already written a review has got much of the information wrong and so does not give a true account of how good this book really is. The way in which james captured the pilots are second to none. People should be proud that someone has finally reconised what these pilots did for this country.
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beautiful portraits
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As the child of an ageing ex-serviceman, I was very moved by these powerful portraits of men who in their youth risked so much for their countrymen. It was fascinating to see how each had aged, yet retained the essence of themselves seen in the smaller photograph. We live in a horribly ageist society and this book as a celebration of the beauty and dignity of old age is a moving tribute to these heros. It both celebrates their achievements - and reminds today's younger generations that they should never make assumptions about older people. They have frequently seen, experienced and given far more than we can ever imagine.
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