John Newton Chance

One of those books I read too many years ago to want to recall. A library book I think, so I must have still been at school...
Made an impression on me that stayed over the years. It was well written and was about an RAF pilot who spent the war in Training Command. Not front line, but every bit as important and dangerous in its own way.
I had long forgotten both author and title, but stumbled across this copy and bells started ringing.
I hope it lives up to my memories...
Two days later:
Oh, yes... better if anything.
The author, also a prolific writer of crime, thriller and science fiction stories, was judged 'a bit old for a pilot' when he joined up. He was posted to instructing immediately on gaining his wings. The book follows his career with humour and insight, through deep depression to bright highs as he learns his trade. Initially he had little more experience than those he was instructing. Once he learns the art of instructing he settles into his craft.
Eventually the stress of the job, he was now in command of a flight for both day and night training, leads to a break down. He was invalided out of the service early in 1944.
Highly recommended for anyone searching for a different memoir of the RAF in WW2.… (mehr)