Now here is a very cool new book that should find a lot of fans. If you are like me, I like profile books, especially when the profiles are based on extant images and well done research. We have such a new book from Landscape Publications. The name of the publishing house is appropriate as this book is in landscape format, one that works particularly well when doing a book of profiles.

This first edition delves into two different themes. One is aircraft adorned with either art work or badges that depict the American Indian. Why some folks call native Americans 'Red Indians' is unknown, but perhaps it stems from movies and comics of the 1930s. The second section is on the P-47s of the 19th Fighter Squadron which was based on Saipan  during WWII.

In both cases, there is a profile pretty much on each of the 64 pages with photos of the aircraft in question as well as a description of each profile and any assumptions or research information that was appropriate to the aircraft in question. In some cases you get both sides of the plane and even some upper views. There are even a few drawings of aircraft to show any peculiarities that are specific to the plane involved. One that really caught my eye was on the cowling of an early Spitfire IX. Apparently when the type first entered service, Mk.V engine cowlings were used and various bulges and panels added to allow the new engine to fit. Something I did not know and something Spitfire boffins will find of interest. I was also surprised that some of the 45 FS P-40Ns were painted light Navy Grey and not the popularly believed Sand shade.

I have included a sample page from the Indian section (by the way, each section covers half the book or 32 pages). While the majority of images are from WWII aircraft, that is not always the case as some WWI types are provided for the first section.

In all, this makes for a fascinating read and an excellent reference for the modeler. It is well researched and something that I can give my highest recommendation. Please note that their web site is in both French and English so be sure to click on the little language flag when you first visit.

May 2012

Review book courtesy of www.landscape-publications.com . Get yours at the link or have your local retailer order it for you.

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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