The Origin of the Fighter Aircraft

[vonworks]

Has anybody read The Origin of the Fighter Aircraft
by Jon Guttman

Any review would be helpful
Thanks
Wade

[Fokker Ace]

I just picked up a new copy for $10 and have glossed though most of it. First impressions are a rather general history/overview of the WWI fighter scene with the usual stories of the aces, etc.

The bibliography is rather limited and the book lacks tables and no appendices - something that rather bothers me. Actually it bothers me a lot; a book trying to show how fighter evolved would be well served with comparative info in an easy to access format. Even production data is lacking.

There are a number of photos in each chapter and, while intersting choices, the paper stock means poor reproduction quality.

This is probably an ok choice for someone new to WWI aviation or for those with a casual interest. People looking for an in-depth study or wanting a new retelling most likely won't find it here.

I'm glad I paid less than half price. Hope that doesn't come off as too harsh.

[jastaflieger]

I will say that i do not have this new book in hand, but i will say that i will be very much looking forward to it since MR Guttman wrote the book. His contributions to Osprey are fantastic( just read Fokker DVII vs SPAD) and look forward to the Se5 vs ALbators DV. He writes regularly for Aviation History and his articles are always well researched.
I would be willing to bet that this new book has more depth than appears at first glance. I think of Jon as being one of the top writers and historians on WWI avaition along with GregvW, and others.
If anyone is looking for another book on this "topic" there is RIse of the Fighter Aircraft 1914-1918 by Richard Hallion, Nautical and Aviation Publishing Co.,1984 is a good book, i read it a long time ago, but remembered that it was a good paper on the timing of certain aircraft types in conjuction with different ground battles and the author tried to connect the changes in tactics by the pilots, the strategic use of aircraft as the types of aircraft changed and became capable of improved performance.
Again, i think that Jon will not write something that will not contribute alot to our WWI knowledge.

jim