Critics' Opinion:
Readers' rating:
Published Oct 2009
352 pages
Genre: Biography/Memoir
Publication Information
On January 15, 2009, the world witnessed one of the most remarkable emergency landings in history when Captain Chelsley 'Sully' Sullenberger skillfully glided US Airways Flight 1549 onto the surface of the Hudson River, saving the lives of all 155 passengers and crew aboard. His cool actions not only averted tragedy but made him a hero and an inspiration worldwide. To Sullenberger, a calm, steady pilot with forty years of flying experience who is also a safety consulting expert, the landing was not a miracle, but rather the result of years of practice and training - wisdom he gained in U.S. Air Force jets and in his Texas childhood.
Born to a dentist father and an elementary school teacher mother, Sully fell in love with planes as a young boy. He learned to fly at 16, taking lessons from a crop-duster in a vintage airplane from a grass strip nearby. While his father, a World War II veteran, offered encouragement, he also imparted stern advice the future pilot took to heart: a commander is responsible for everyone in his care. They are words that have shaped Sully's life and work and continue to guide him today. At its heart, this is a story of hope and preparedness - supporting the belief that life's challenges can be met if we're ready for them - reminding us that, even in these challenging days, there are things still worth fighting for.
"Starred Review. Zaslow's contributions should not be overlooked.... he invisibly assists Sullenberger in going beyond the moment that sparks readers' interest ... and elaborate upon the life experiences that give context to his fame." - Publishers Weekly
"Of particular interest to aviation buffs, but valuable for anyone interested in how a life lived with integrity prepares a man for the ultimate challenge." - Kirkus Reviews
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