There is no more glamorous and romantic period of aviation than the few years before and during World War II when the big flying boats of Pan American circled the globe, and those Clippers are celebrated in a big new book by James Trautman. In Pan American Clippers, Trautman details the airplanes, of course, with photos and specifications and histories. But he also includes pictures of the people-everybody from passengers to pilots to politicians-of the era, and advertisements and other memorabilia to bring the time back to life. Serious flying boat history buffs will be satisfied by the book, but the more casual enthusiast will also be transported back in time.
The 9- by 11-inch book contains more than 300 images and carries a list price of $49.95. For information see Firefly books at fireflybooks.com.
