Beirne Lay (1909–1982)

Gregory Peck as the stern and yet fatherlike general leading his troops to battle in the air over Europe--I have strong memories of the film version of this book, which was written by the authors of the book (pretty amazing all by itself!). It took a bit of reading to get characters set up in my mind, and a romance in print that is nowhere on the screen, but this is a good telling of the story of a select group of flyers. It's also interesting to see how psychological stress is treated in show more the narrative of the story--at a time when such themes were relatively rare. Certainly recommended for fans of historical novels, and recommended as well for readers testing their knowledge of American airmen in England during WWII. show less

4330. Twelve O'Clock High! by Beirne Lay, Jr. and Sy Bartlett (read 18 June 2007) Poignant, authentic, with some very highly dramatic episodes. I thought it was a good thrilling read, tho there were some dull spots, and the romance seemed unnecessary to the story. A lot of heroics involved and it is worthwhile to think of what awful tensions the men who flew over Europe in World War II suffered.

Colonel Frank Savage tries to revitalize an England-based fighter group that has had extremely bad luck in combat.

Excellent Condition and autographed by both Authors!