The Big Show cover art

The Big Show

The Classic Account of WWII Aerial Combat

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The Big Show

By: Pierre Clostermann
Narrated by: Julian Elfer
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About this listen

Pierre Clostermann DFC was one of the oustanding Allied aces of the Second World War. A Frenchman who flew with the RAF, he survived over 420 operational sorties, shooting down scores of enemy aircraft while friends and comrades lost their lives in the deadly skies above Europe.

The Big Show, his extraordinary account of the war, has been described as the greatest pilot's memoir of WWII.

©1948, 2008 Flammmarion (P)2020 Tantor Air Forces Armed Forces Military Military & War World War II War Transportation Aviation Heartfelt Thought-Provoking

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The book puts you in the cockpit of some memorable moments. Not to be missed, brilliant.

Understated courage

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I have read a lot of WWII fighter pilot accounts but, along with "First Light" by Geoffrey Wellum, this is one of the best. I read it in paperback format years ago and it has lost none of its impact over the years. It is full of action with an excellent, and easy to understand, level of technical detail and is full of emotion, too. A fantastic read, and highly recommended.

Brilliant account of air combat in WWII

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Well written and equally well narrated. One would be led to believe the Luftwaffe pilots did to have many fighters to field into battle in 1944 and beyond but this sets they’re rod straight. Fascinating hearing of their use of autobahns and underground factories too.
I’d like to read more about those pilots flying the Tempest, my next quest for google.

Interesting listen, better than anticipated

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A truly amazing book on done if the finest men, in their finest hour. It really brought the whole show to life, now to play the DCS campaign modelled on his exploits to really bring it to life :)

Excellent

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First read in the 70's, this book remains a thrilling story of bravery and courage, of loss, success and the endeavours of many airmen. an insight into the dangers, the power and abilities of the pilots and their aircraft, some of the sensations flying fighter planes. A recommended read (or listen).

Brilliant

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I liked the honest telling of the pilot’s wartime experiences. He is also a great writer and the use of language in describing scenes in nature were beautiful. Excellent book!

Authentic story of pilots in action

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I read this many years ago and thoroughly enjoyed it and have now also enjoyed having it read to me.
You are right there in the cockpit with Pierre Clostermann, reliving every excitement and terror. A riveting read.

The best fighter pilot memoir

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Although written mire like a diary the story reads well. Giving the reader the feelings of an exhausting conflict. The tragedies and suffering of those who fought and survived through the loss of many comrades.

Sad story of aerial warfare and loss

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Good indepeth description of flying, air combat and life in the RAF in WW2. Highly recommended. 👍

Great story of aerial combat

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Pierre Clostermann has been and acknowledged name within the field of aerial come back during the Second World War. Although his account is modest it is clear that he was an extraordinary talented pilot and combatant.

The main problem with this title is, I’m afraid, generation. It’s important for narrators to be aware of pronunciation and how numbers are spoken. Also it’s easier to hear for example the word “horsepower” rather than HP. There are quite a few little slips which sadly and mine the pleasure of this remarkable account. However if you are interested in this subject I strongly recommend you listen.

Important and extraordinary historical account - let down by narration.

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