Book reviews Your captain speaking, by Captain Scott Birrell (published by Wetsocks Books, 12.99) While reading this thoughtful autobiography, I reflected upon just how many recently retired pilots choose to describe their airline flying careers in full and enthusiastic detail. Having made it to 65 before stopping airline flying, I now appreciate the vast number of memories I retain from those years of fulfilment and enjoyment. Most of my own are within easy reach simply by glancing through my logbooks. Many entries serve as reminders of at least one significant event during the trip and there were many. Our profession has embraced far more opportunities for fun, adventure, and varied experiences than say, an accountant, a solicitor, or even a doctor. Of course, if one is fortunate enough to work in general aviation, cargo flying, and then shortand long-haul passenger services for both charter and scheduled carriers, there is more than enough scope to describe a full and invigorating career. Scott Birrell does just that in his 350-page account of his aviation life. His book is a pleasant read, and serves to remind the reader of the many events that punctuate a life of flying. The authors enthusiasm for his chosen profession never wanes through the many years that he covers, and his account is peppered with numerous anecdotes. The book seems to be aimed at the professional airline pilot, and would be a good read while down route. The detail contained within is best suited to those who understand the ins and outs of the airline world, which Birrell clearly does. A PPL-holder or an aviation neophyte may well be overwhelmed by the references to NPAs, ETOPS, and the like. The author gamely gives basic explanations of many complexities, but they are for the professional rather than the amateur. Although many similar life story accounts have been penned by seasoned airline pilots, none is identical. Your Captain Speaking distinguishes itself by presenting thought-provoking opinions held by the writer on a number of contemporary issues, such as pay-to-fly, FTLs, and the demise of hands-on pilot management. His may be in the last batch of such books, as the aviation world described is now changing at a very high rate of knots. I envisage that future autobiographies may be less colourful and briefer, as the twisty pathways of a long and varied flying career such as his are disappearing rapidly. By David Keen, Log Board member Flying used to be fun, by Michael Clarke (published by Austin Macauley, 15.99, available at WHSmith, Kingston branch) An absolutely fantastic read. In Flying used to be fun, Michael Clarke takes the reader back in time to the glorious good old days, when flying was really by the seat of the pants. The author recounts with stunning clarity, humour and alacrity his career flying the DC3, right through to the 767. He reminds us of how nightstops used to be, recounts a few terrifying calls resulting in MORs, and finally explains what an Abbeville hard is. Clarke became involved with BALPA around the time of the BEA/BOAC merger, and lays bare the industrial problems at the time and how he helped steer BALPA through the crises that emerged. A truly essential read for all pilots, young or old, and well worth adding to the lockdown list of books to read. The book is available from WHSmith, Kingston upon Thames (check availability by calling 020 8549 7631) or directly from Austin Macauley Publishers. By Captain Jeremy Feldman, Log Board member Would you like to review a book for The Log? If so, simply email TheLog@balpa.org BOO K R EVI EWS Our pick of the best flight-related tomes and podcasts