Known to millions of Australians simply as 'Smithy', Sir Charles Kingsford Smith was one of Australia's true 20th century legends. In an era in which aviators were superstars, Smithy was among the greatest and, throughout his amazing career, his fame in Australia was matched only by that of Don Bradman. Among other achievements, Smithy was the first person to fly across the Pacific, he broke the record for the fastest flight from England to Australia, and at one point he held more long-distance flying records than anyone else on the planet. If that wasn't enough, Smithy was also a war hero, receiving the Military Cross for gallantry in action after being shot - and losing three toes - during one of many flying missions during World War I. Smithy was not the lone adventurer of the skies. Early aviation drew to it a company of daredevils who all challenged gravity and fear.
This comprehensive biography, written with typical flair by bestselling author Peter FitzSimons, covers the triumphs and tragedies of not only Kingsford Smith's daring and controversial life but also those of his companion aviators.
By:
Peter FitzSimons Read by:
Richard Aspel Imprint: Bolinda Country of Publication: Australia Edition: Unabridged Dimensions:
Height: 134mm,
Width: 146mm,
Spine: 28mm
Weight: 512g ISBN:9781742332277 ISBN 10: 1742332277 Publication Date:01 June 2009 Audience:
General/trade
,
ELT Advanced
Format:CD-Audio Publisher's Status: Active
Peter FitzSimons is the author of nearly twenty books, including Tobruk and biographies of Nancy Wakey, Kim Beazley, Nene Kingy, Nick Farr-Jones, Steve Waugh and John Eales.