"Fighting the Flying Circus" by Eddie V. Rickenbacker is a firsthand account of the life and combat activities of America's most celebrated World War I fighter pilot. The book provides a detailed insight into the day-to-day ordeals of flying canvas and wooden aircraft during the war, showcasing the challenges faced by pilots in combat. Rickenbacker's writing style is described as matter-of-fact, honest, and modest, recounting his missions and those of his squadron members with total transparency.

Rickenbacker's book is praised for its excellent rendition of a fighter pilot's mission, attitude, and philosophy. It offers a valuable glimpse into the development of air power and combat flying during WWI, highlighting the accomplishments of Rickenbacker as a skilled combat pilot. The book not only captures the intense action of aerial battles but also delves into the emotions and introspections of the individuals involved, making it a compelling read for history buffs and aviation enthusiasts alike.

Writing/Prose:

The writing style is characterized by a matter-of-fact tone with descriptive accounts and a blend of action and introspection.

Plot/Storyline:

The plot revolves around a straightforward recounting of combat experiences during the final months of WWI, detailing various missions and personal reflections.

Setting:

The setting is primarily in France during the last months of WWI, focusing on the aerial combat environment and the experiences of fighter pilots.

Pacing:

The pacing is generally slow at times but maintains interest through insightful reflections and action sequences.

My most memorable morning came on the sixth day of March, 1918. I had joined the 94th Aero Squadron, the Hat-in-the-Ring organization at Villeneuve, two days before. We were located some twenty miles ...

Genres:

Topics:

Notes:

Eddie Rickenbacker was a successful racing car driver before becoming a fighter pilot in WWI.

He served in the Hat in the Ring Squadron, which flew combat missions against the Germans.

Rickenbacker was known for his honesty and humility in recounting his missions.

He often shared mistakes he made in the air that could have been deadly.

The book describes the dangers pilots faced, including flying without parachutes.

Rickenbacker is recognized as America's top scoring fighter ace in WWI.

The title of the book suggests constant battle with the Red Baron's Flying Circus, but that's not the main focus.

He provides valuable insights into the realities of aerial combat during the war.

Rickenbacker earned the Congressional Medal of Honor for his bravery in combat.

The book offers a mix of action and introspection about the life of a fighter pilot.

From The Publisher:

In Fighting the Flying Circus, Captain Rickenbacker recounts his combat missions against the Germans in the skies over Europe during WWI.

What can you read after
Fighting the Flying Circus?

About the Author:

Captain Eddie V. Rickenbacker was the most successful fighter ace in World War I, with 26 aerial victories to his name. A Medal of Honor recipient, he was a government consultant in military matters after the war, and the longtime head of Eastern Air Lines. He died in 1973.

Meet New Books is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a way for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to products and services on amazon.com and its subsidiaries.
When you click the Amazon link and make a purchase, we may receive a small commision, at no cost to you.

Fighting the Flying Circus

Eddie V. Rickenbacker