David Sears (1) (1947–)

In a grand sweeping narrative, Pacific Air tells the inspiring story of how, despite initial disastrous defeats, a generation of young naval aviators challenged and ultimately vanquished a superior Japanese air force and fleet in the Pacific. The instruments of the United States aviators' triumphs were the elegantly designed F4F Wildcat, F6F Hellcat, as well as the lethal TBF Avenger torpedo bomber. With superbly trained U.S. Navy and Marine Corps aviators at their controls, these planes became the most successful aerial weapons in naval history.
A majestic portrait of a proud era from dual perspectives--the inventive minds of young aeronautical engineers and the deadly artistry of even younger combat pilots--Pacific Air brings this important yet underappreciated chapter of World War II vividly to life.… (meer)

I am underwhelmed. Its not that is was a poor book, it just wasn't as interesting as I was hoping it would be.
I anticipated a stronger narrative from the men who participated in the fighting. There were lot of quotes from and references to, and about, the the sailors and airmen, but it seemed to me to be a retelling of the battle, except for the Battle of Cape Engano, with quotes scattered throughout. If I didn't already have a good grasp of the battle, I could have come way from reading it without fully understanding what was going.

The author had quotes from a large number of the men, and that could have been part of the problem, as sometimes I felt some of the words of the men were left out that could have added a bit more the narrative.

Overall, it is an acceptable addition to my bookshelf… (meer)