Savannah-Tom wrote:My brother just sent me this book for HIS birthday. Sweet. By Ted Barber, this story chronicles his life as as barnstormer, mustang herder, first fbo in Eastern Oregon, military pilot trainer, and inventor. His story is captivating and I read the whole thing in two days.

It was amazing to read how unreliable the planes were back in the 20s. A great engine would have a TBO of 200 hours. They didn't know anything about carb icing and were constantly having engine outs and forced landings. By the time the author had 100 hours he had already about a dozen forced landings. Seems like he was a pretty lucky guy.

The descriptions of the Eastern Oregon and Northern Nevada area was fun because I've flown, hiked, 4x4'd, and camped in many of the same places.

Field repairs were common, and reminded me of a repair a guy did up near Johnson Creek Idaho.

I think this book is out of print, but still available from several used booksellers.

I was lucky enough to get a signed copy by Ted 20 years ago. Maybe his heirs still sell it? I'm not sure he's still around or not, pretty old if so, a great read of some REAL flying.

tom