Over and Above

Over and Above is Gurdon's first and best book, a fictionalized account of his own service flying career, with names changed, incidents rearranged, and a darker narrative as men become wearier and new comrades arrive and are killed. This new edition retains the original script but has been updated with an introduction by John Gurdons granddaughter Camilla Jane Gurdon Blakeley and an extended illustrated appendix by renowned historian Norman Franks.

Format: Hardback
Length: 224 pages
Publication date: 29 June 2018
Publisher: Grub Street Publishing

Over and Above is Gurdon's debut and most acclaimed work, which has been reprinted numerous times over the past two decades, under various titles such as Winged Warriors or Wings of Death. While it is marketed as a novel, it is more accurately described as a fictionalized account of his own service flying career, with names altered and incidents rearranged. The story unfolds with thrilling raids across enemy lines and towns, desperate battles against overwhelming odds, and displays of chivalry towards an unyielding foe. However, as the narrative progresses, the tone becomes increasingly somber as fatigue sets in, new comrades arrive and meet their tragic ends, and those who remain struggle to find meaning in increasingly confusing circumstances, mirroring Gurdon's own experiences.

Crafted in the style of the era and catering to a class that valued maintaining a slangy, jovial demeanor, even in the face of grim circumstances, the book exudes a sense of cheerfulness. Chums would exchange greetings like "beaucoup Huns" before embarking on missions in challenging weather conditions, showcasing their unwavering spirit.

This remarkable work stands alongside Winged Victory by V M Yeates and deserves to be widely accessible. The new edition of Over and Above retains the original script, preserving its authentic voice. However, it has been enriched with an introduction by John Gurdon's granddaughter, Camilla Jane Gurdon Blakeley, and an extensive illustrated appendix by renowned historian Norman Franks.

Weight: 292g
Dimension: 147 x 217 x 25 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781911621089