Nungesser: New historical novel... We want you!

[Rittmeister]

I have been in the process of assembling as much information as possible to develop a “historical novel” centered on the life, career and accomplishments of Charles Nungesser.

My outline is taking the shape of a historical novel somewhat like those done by Michael and Jeff Shaara in Books like Gettysburg, Glorious Cause, and To the Last Man. I want to fill out areas which probably none of us will ever know the true facts with plausible recreations based on the legend or best available third party notes, such as his early days in South America and in France before and at the Start of the War, as well as postwar with his flying school and film career. The intention is not a strict academic biography, but something a bit more story and action oriented to appeal to both WW1 aviation aficionados as we as the casual reader.
If you are familiar with Shaara’s works, you know the outline structure I’m working with. In various ways I also hope to bring in various other characters I have in development such as Francois Coli, Raoul Lufbery, Frank Luke, Georges Guynemer, Roger Pochon, Louis Verdier, Mata Hari, as well as some of his opponents and many others. I have a large amount of technical data, such as aircraft, personal photos, bits and pieces of his life from other published works, but nothing definitive such as a biography, or combat reports. There many internet and WW1 related sites that wire frame his life and career (all essentially using the same 3 to 5 page outline bio), and trying to contact Bill Nungesser (his American relative) has proved fruitless.
I’d like to be able to find more data on his early career in VB106 before going the N65.
The only bios I have heard of other than several that deal with the Atlantic crossing attempt are:

1946: Le Roman de Nungesser, by Florian Parmentien, publ. by Editions Paul Dupont

1953: Le Chevalier du Ciel: Un Bagarreur Héroïque Charles Nungesser, by Marcel Julian, publ. by Amiot - Dumont (199 pages)

1961: Nungesser L'as des as ( Ace of Aces) , by Marcel Julian, publ. by Le Livre Contemporain (254 pages)

I have seen used copies available for the second and third from time to time, but know nothing about the first. Since my French reading is rather weak (but getting better!), deciphering them could be a bit of a struggle. The last two are by the same author 8 years apart and similar length. I was wondering which (if you have one or both) is considered the best or more accurate. Any assistance with translations or recommendations or these or other books would be so greatly appreciated.

Anything you can offer. Magazine reprints, photos or sources of photos, personal diaries. Access to combat reports. (I’d really love to see combat reports) would be appreciated, copying and mail charges compensated, and you would be fully credited in acknowledgments or the dedication.

I’m reaching out to my brothers (and sister possibly) on the Aerodrome in the US, France, and the World at large to revive again Nungesser’s spirit.

Thank you all for your help. Even if you can only refer this to others; that would be greatly appreciated. I’ll be happy to supply a personal email and/or mailing address as well.

[Enthusiast]

I've got some old books that mention him from the 1920s. Might try and dig those up and get them to you. Best of luck on this endeavor.

[Rittmeister]

Originally Posted by Enthusiast

I've got some old books that mention him from the 1920s. Might try and dig those up and get them to you. Best of luck on this endeavor.

Thanks a bunch. I'm praying that someone chimes in that has or has read one or both of the Marcel Juian books.

My real savior would be Bill Nungesser but have not heard from him yet. I know he's been working diligently for almost 20 years, maybe more on his Great uncle's bio. I'm certain when its finally ready it will be a tour de force.
My internt is not as academic but I wawnt the fact behind the story to be accurate.