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.
