Drawing on new interviews, private archives and previously unpublished material, this is the story of a man who helped change the course of history – one of the great design leaders of the twentieth century. With thanks to Liz for her review.
This is an unlikely read for me but I had the pleasure of attending a talk that Paul Beaver presented. For me it was a technical talk on the Spitfire, not my thing at all but I am a Family Historian so maybe it ticked that box. I was absolutely enthralled. Before I knew it the evening was coming to a close at about 1030pm and I could have sat and listened for longer. Paul delivered the information so well that not only did I enjoy the subject matter, but I learnt a lot and was left hungry for more.
The book is just as the talk was – well-presented and delivered. The history of the development of the Spitfire within this book explains the tenacity and dedication that Reginald Mitchell had in order to get his idea recognised and thank goodness he did. It is written in such a way that anybody could pick it u and be captivated by the contents. Much like attending Paul Beaver’s talks!
Paul Beaver has written a wonderful account covering information that we should all know about in a very readable format. There is a bonus too! There are signed copies in the book shop available now. In true fashion, Tea Leaves and Reads has once again taken me out of my comfort zone and taught me to keep an open mind on what is out there.
About the Book
Reginald Mitchell is one of the greatest names in aviation history. A visionary engineer with a passion for speed, his legacy is the most iconic fighter aircraft of all time: the Spitfire.
During the uneasy peace of the 1920s, he was a trailblazing innovator working at the cutting edge of technology. As Europe’s politics darkened in the 1930s, the work of Mitchell and his team at Supermarine became crucial to a nation preparing for war. Though he did not live to see the Spitfire in action, his work led to triumph at the Battle of Britain – and to a legendary aircraft that still inspires awe to this day.
In this exhilarating biography, Paul Beaver takes us behind the scenes, exploring the creative genius of a man devoted to pushing the boundaries of technology. We see his flair for leadership and collaboration with Rolls-Royce, the pinnacle of British engineering; we learn of Mitchell’s other innovative designs that could have changed the course of the war, had he not died in 1937; and, at last, we hear the real story behind the Spitfire.
About The Author
Paul Beaver is a leading aviation historian, broadcaster and author, as well as an historic aeroplane pilot who has been flying the Spitfire since 2011. He has written more than forty books including Spitfire People, Spitfire Evolution and Winkle: The Extraordinary Life of Britain’s Greatest Pilot. As well as being an author, Paul has been a television war reporter, journalist with Jane’s, a parliamentary advisor and served twenty-seven years in the Territorial Army, rising to the rank of Colonel in the Army Air Corps.
Purchase the Book
This book can be purchased in our store either on its own or in a cosy Book Box.
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