The back-cover blurb states that this has become one of the classic works on the subject of gliding. The author is undoubtedly knowledgeable, and there were even a few little nuggets of amusement buried in its pages. This might make a much better read for an actual aspiring glider pilot than it was for me, even though I am interested in the subject. This may be because glider pilots are usually already pilots of powered aircraft, so there is some assumption on the author’s part of knowledge on the reader’s part. I am not a pilot (and I don’t play one on TV either)—I’m just a nerd :) So this is definitely more for a specialist audience. ( )

This guide explains how and why a glider flies, and demonstrates, with the aid of diagrams, that the basic principles are not in fact complex. It answers questions such as What actually happens when a gust of wind hits a glider? and What maintains, or disturbs, the stability of a machine?
"Derek Piggott MBE spent 30 years as the Chief Instructor at the Lasham Gliding Centre, and has, over the years, introduced thousands of people to the joys of silent flight. He is a keen instructor and continues to be an active competitor in gliding competitions. In the fourth edition of this classic work on the subject, Derek passes on yet more of his comprehensive knowledge of the sport. He presents the basic principles of gliding in a style any pilot can easily understand. For those who would like to improve their gliding performance as pilots this book comes highly recommended"--Back cover.