Lieutenant Shane Osborn was born in South Dakota in 1974 and was raised in Nebraska, where he attended the University of Nebraska on a Naval ROTC scholarship. He was awarded the Distinguished Flying Cross for heroism and extraordinary achievement in flight. He lives in Anacortes, Washington.
Malcolm McConnell has written extensively on military aviation.
Michael French is the author of several books for young adults.
Gr 5-8-A fascinating story of endurance, courage, and patriotism. French has adapted Osborn's adult book for young people. He tells the story of a boy's dream to become a pilot, his formal flight training in the Navy, and how his skill and stamina were tested as commander of an EP-3E reconnaissance aircraft. In April, 2001, an inflight collision with a Chinese fighter over China during a routine surveillance mission turned into an international incident. Osborn managed to land the damaged aircraft, save his crew, and survive interrogation and imprisonment by the Chinese. He inspired his crew to get through their ordeal and came out a hero to all. The book reads like fiction, with lots of dialogue. The brief glossary of aviation terms is useful and the photos and map enhance the readable text. Black-and-white photos appear in an eight-page center section. A good choice for anyone considering a career in the military and for fans of true-adventure survival stories.
David M. Alperstein, Queens Borough Public Library, NY
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