There come times when one gets a book and is immediately drawn into it. Such is this latest release by Mushroom Models Publications. This book tells the story of the Mirage IIIO (O for Ostralia - and I'm not kidding) in Australian service. But this isn't a rote explanation of the plane's service and the usual pilot and crew stories.

No, instead this one is aimed right at us; the modelers of the world. If you have a love of the French Delta and a fascination with its operation in Australia, then you'll find this book of interest. But really, it is done for us; those who have to know the proper FS 595/BSC 381 shade, or the correct pattern on the left fin, or the appropriate font for early delivery aircraft.

At 312 pages, this is the largest softcover book that Mushroom Models Publications has done. If you are wondering why so many pages, then all you have to do is thumb through it. You'll find page upon page upon page of large, colorful photos and four views showing every camouflage scheme carried by the Aussie Mirage. If you think they were all green and grey then think again as the Mirage IIIO carried what I consider to be the widest array of 'standard' schemes of any Mirage operator and a nearly bewildering number of special camouflage and anniversary markings.

On top of that, unit markings were changing as the aircraft went through its history with the RAAF.

The first 125 pages cover the operational history and standard camo of the Mirage IIIO. This covers all the various units that flew the Mirage. Then we get about 100 pages of special schemes and experimental colors, followed by a few pages of nose art and zaps. Then there are forty pages of walk-around images that include the full array of stores carried.

This is followed by a section that has one photo of every one of the 100 Mirage IIIOs that were in service, choosing the most interesting scheme that particular aircraft carried. Finally, there are several pages of drawings showing all views of the aircraft including bits and pieces of different updated and modifications.

In all, one of the truly outstanding books of the year. I know this is going to sound like hyperbole to you, but this is a book that is worthy of all the exemplary adjectives that you can attach to it. It is really that good.

October 2005

Review book courtesy of Mushroom Models Publications where you can order your copy. Australian readers can get theirs from Platypus Publications.

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