Self publishing is becoming more and more a common way to put out a book to the public. As one only has printed what is ordered, it makes it possible to get some interesting and esoteric publications. The first issue of American Aerospace Archive fits into this category nicely. It is basically a reprint of a 1944 promotional brochure from Martin Aircraft, touting a commercial version of their new Mars flying boat.

Those of you familiar with the Mars will recall that the JRM was limited to five airframes before production ceased. These served well with the Navy and the remaining boats were sold off to serve as huge water bombers. Two still ply that trade with much success.

The magazine provides a background history to the Mars and then goes into the various pages of the brochure. This is all done in the artwork of the period and shows the different interior details for passengers as well as the crew. Cutaway drawings are provided of each of the different configurations as it was planned on full passenger, full cargo and a combination. Not only that, but there was a day passenger arrangement and a night set up as the long range of the aircraft meant it would be in the air for a very long period of time. In all a look at what was considered opulence for the mid 1940s.

I found it to be a fascinating look at what could have been and the way long range travel was done prior to the mass of island airstrips that made flying boats obsolete. The most reasonable price also makes it a bargain and is a book that I can easily highly recommend.

October 2008

Review book courtesy of www.aeroarchivepress.com . International orders can get yours direct from the link. US Orders go to www.magcloud.com/browse/issue/3629

If you would like your product reviewed fairly and quickly, please contact me or see other details in the Note to Contributors.

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