Skyfaring by Mark Vanhoenaker

(read aloud)

A modern Saint-Exupéry, MV writes in a similar lyrical dreaming style. This engaging and often surprising description of the world and the world of flight from the cockpit of a 747 is a real delight. Not only does he have a rare perch but it seems he has the eye of the artist deeply noticing what might escape others. He deals with technical matters: lift, drag, weather, navigation and many other things, but seemingly always in a fresh way and from another angle. He has seen much of the world from the air and many major cities from the ground using his rest time to see the sights. This is a special book and though he doesn't reach the heights of Saint-Exupéry, MV is a worthy colleague.