Chuck Yeager: Fighter Pilot

School Library Journal

Gr 5-7 Of these two biographies of Yeager, Levinson's is far superior. Ayres' book misses its goal. The title is somewhat misleading since a majority of the book is devoted to Yeager's life as a test pilot. The light, breezy text talks down to readers and includes some awkward sentence constructions. Some of the captions for the black-and-white photographs are worded oddly. The lack of a glossary or index further limits the book's use. Levinson's book, on the other hand, is far more complete and readable. The text begins with an attention-getting chapter about the day that the sound barrier was first broken. The balance of the text is a chronological description of Yeager's life which covers his childhood, flight training, World War II combat, various peace-time military assignments, the Vietnam War, and his family. However, most of the book concerns Yeager's life as a test pilot. Black-and-white photos illustrate the text. The book is obviously based on extensive research. The writing is fresh, crisp, and fast-moving. All aviation terms used in the text are included in a glossary. Aviation enthusiasts should enjoy this one. Eldon Younce, Harper Elem . School, Kans.