This is a biography of the author of Winged Victory which has just been reissued by Grub Street (reviewed in 35/2), with the usual cover picture of SE5s which has graced most of the many editions of that wonderful book, (and even one of the reviews!), despite the fact that Yeates flew Camels. Atkin says that the ‘Aces ‘flew SE5s whilst the poor Camel pilots were lumbered with too much ground strafing, which was not glamorous, and also very dangerous. The consequent strain was without doubt the cause of many young men becoming ill as did Yeates.

This book confirms what I had always hoped and understood, that Winged Victory was largely autobiographical, and contains a great deal of fascinating detective work to prove it. There is also a lot about the rest of Yeates’ life, his friendship with Henry Williamson and T.E. Lawrence, and his supportive family. I also like the way the many excellent illustrations are always in the right place in the text. It is a beautifully produced book on good paper. The story of the success of Yeates’ book, which only happened after his tragically early death, and the way his widow coped with a growing family afterwards, moved me considerably.

Be warned – there is a print run of only 350, and judging by the way the Committee of CCI were grabbing copies at the last Meeting, you will have to move fast to get your copy!