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When Tigers Ruled the Sky: The Flying Tigers: American Outlaw Pilots over China in World War II
From the acclaimed author of Hit the Target and Big Week, an in-depth account of the legendary World War II combat group, the Flying Tigers.
In 1940, Pearl Harbor had not yet happened, and America was not yet at war with Japan. But China had been trying to stave off Japanese aggression for three years—and was desperate for aircraft and trained combat pilots.
General Chiang Kai-shek sent military aviation advisor Claire Chennault to Washington, where President Roosevelt was sympathetic, but knew he could not intervene overtly. Instead, he quietly helped Chennault put together a group of American volunteer pilots.
This was how the 1st American Volunteer Group—more commonly known as the Flying Tigers—was born.
With the trademark smiling shark jaws on their P-40 fighters, these Army, Navy and Marine pilots became a sensation as they fought for the Chinese. Those who initially doubted them were eventually in awe as they persevered over Rangoon despite being outnumbered 14-1 by Japanese aircraft; as they were described by Madame Chiang Kai-shek as her “little angels” and by a Chinese foreign minister as “the soundest investment China ever made”; and as they ultimately destroyed hundreds of Japanese planes while losing only a dozen of their own in combat. Two of their veterans would later earn the Medal of Honor—and as a group, the Flying Tigers managed to rack up a better record than any other air wing in the Pacific theater. When Tigers Ruled the Sky is a thrilling and triumphant account of their courage and their legacy.
In 1940, Pearl Harbor had not yet happened, and America was not yet at war with Japan. But China had been trying to stave off Japanese aggression for three years—and was desperate for aircraft and trained combat pilots.
General Chiang Kai-shek sent military aviation advisor Claire Chennault to Washington, where President Roosevelt was sympathetic, but knew he could not intervene overtly. Instead, he quietly helped Chennault put together a group of American volunteer pilots.
This was how the 1st American Volunteer Group—more commonly known as the Flying Tigers—was born.
With the trademark smiling shark jaws on their P-40 fighters, these Army, Navy and Marine pilots became a sensation as they fought for the Chinese. Those who initially doubted them were eventually in awe as they persevered over Rangoon despite being outnumbered 14-1 by Japanese aircraft; as they were described by Madame Chiang Kai-shek as her “little angels” and by a Chinese foreign minister as “the soundest investment China ever made”; and as they ultimately destroyed hundreds of Japanese planes while losing only a dozen of their own in combat. Two of their veterans would later earn the Medal of Honor—and as a group, the Flying Tigers managed to rack up a better record than any other air wing in the Pacific theater. When Tigers Ruled the Sky is a thrilling and triumphant account of their courage and their legacy.
368 pages, Hardcover
First published July 5, 2016
9 people are currently reading
123 people want to read
About the author
Bill Yenne
201 books52 followersBill Yenne is the author of several novels and over three dozen books on historical topics. He has also been a contributor to encyclopedias of both world wars.
The New Yorker wrote of Sitting Bull, his biography of the great Lakota leader, that it "excels as a study in leadership." This book was named to the number 14 spot among Amazon's 100 Best Books of the Year.
Library Journal observed that "enthusiastic World War II readers will be drawn to" his dual biography, Aces High: The Heroic Story of the Two Top Scoring American Aces of World War II.
Recently, his book Convair Deltas was named as Book of the Month by Air Classics, while his book Tommy Gun was named Pick of the Month by Shooting Illustrated.
His book Guinness: The 250 Year Quest for the Perfect Pint was listed among the top business books of the year by Cond Nast Portfolio Magazine, which rated Yenne's tome as its TOP pick for "Cocktail Conversation."
Yenne's Rising Sons: The Japanese American GIs Who Fought for the United States in World War II, was praised by Walter Boyne, former Director of the National Air & Space Museum, who called it "a fast moving... page turner," and the "best book yet written on the saga."
The Wall Street Journal wrote, when reviewing his Indian Wars: The Campaign for the American West, that Yenne writes with "cinematic vividness," and says of his work that it "has the rare quality of being both an excellent reference work and a pleasure to read."
The author lives in San Francisco, California, and on the web at www.BillYenne.com
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Displaying 1 - 14 of 14 reviews
June 17, 2017
In 1940, Pearl Harbor had not yet happened, and America was not yet at war with Japan. But China had been trying to stave off Japanese aggression for three years—and was desperate for aircraft and trained combat pilots.
General Chiang Kai-shek sent military aviation advisor Claire Chennault to Washington, where President Roosevelt was sympathetic, but knew he could not intervene overtly. Instead, he quietly helped Chennault put together a group of American volunteer pilots.
This was how the 1st American Volunteer Group—more commonly known as the Flying Tigers—was born.
With the trademark smiling shark jaws on their P-40 fighters, these Army, Navy and Marine pilots became a sensation as they fought for the Chinese. Those who initially doubted them were eventually in awe as they persevered over Rangoon despite being outnumbered 14-1 by Japanese aircraft; as they were described by Madame Chiang Kai-shek as her “little angels” and by a Chinese foreign minister as “the soundest investment China ever made”; and as they ultimately destroyed hundreds of Japanese planes while losing only a dozen of their own in combat. Two of their veterans would later earn the Medal of Honor—and as a group, the Flying Tigers managed to rack up a better record than any other air wing in the Pacific theater. When Tigers Ruled the Sky is a thrilling and triumphant account of their courage and their legacy.
what did I think of it:
5 stars
The one reason and only reason I requested this one from NetGalley is because its about the Flying Tigers, when it comes to planes that where use doing World War 2 there my all time favorite ones , this book had so much information not only about how the Flying Tigers came to be but about the pilots themselves, it brings to life the history of WW 2 and what our pilots where going though,it pulls you in, so with that said I would love to say thinks to Netgally for letting me read this great book and I can't wait to pick up the book when it comes out, its a must read.
October 13, 2016
Concise history of the AVG with summaries of the later lives of Claire Chennault (founder of Civil Air Transport, aka Air America), Bissell, Stillwell, etc.
October 8, 2020
"This was the beginning of the greatest adventure I would ever hope to experience. It wasn't until years later that I fully realized the magnitude and significance of this first step, to be a lifelong adventure in the mystic Far East."
Erik Shilling
When Tigers Ruled the Sky: The Flying Tigers: American Outlaw Pilots over China in World War II by Bill Yenne is a look at the American fighting force in China before America entered the war. Yenne is the author of more than three dozen nonfiction books, as well as several novels and he has contributed to encyclopedias of both world wars, and has been featured in several documentaries which have aired on the History Channel, the National Geographic Channel, the Smithsonian Channel and ARD German Television.
In times of peace, some Americans still long for the adventure of war. In WWI there was the Lafayette Escadrille flying for the French. In the Spanish Civil War the was the Abraham Lincoln Brigade. In World War II it was the American Volunteer Group later to be known as the Flying Tigers. Their P-40 fighters bearing the famous shark-toothed mouth on the engine cowling. The flying tiger logo and its origins remain unknown. One of the members joked that it was odd to be a flying tiger when the planes have shark's teeth painted on them.
Claire Lee Chennault persuaded FDR to allow the creation of this unit and recruited men from the army, navy, and Marines. The men would resign from service and essentially become mercenaries for the Chinese. There would be a one-year contract which began on July 4th, 1941. Many of the details were left out of the contract like the bonus for shooting down Japanese planes and the ability of the group members to rejoin the military after the contract. This was an opportunity many had looked for to gain experience in combat. Between the world wars, America cut back the military and flying time was severely limited.
There are mini-biographies of the key figures in the book. Gregory Hallenbeck applied to become a pilot under the Aviation Cadet Act, closed to married men. Hallenbeck applied anyway and when he received his birth certificate his name was listed as Gregory Boyington. His mother divorced when he was an infant and his stepfather raised him as his own. Gregory Boyington became a Marine pilot and a member of the Flying Tigers.
The Flying Tigers in action reads like a Hollywood adventure movie. Outnumbered by as much as 14-1 , they never lost an air battle. Pilot and plane loss was unbelievably low. The group as a whole was divided into three squadrons: The Adam and Eves, The Panda Bears, and The Hell's Angels. Early conditions were horrible and only a few broke their contracts. Boyington would later pack up and leave in April of 1942 and rejoin the Marines. The duty schedule was heavy and understaffed mechanics had their work cut out for them repairing planes with limited supplies. The difficult duty, bad food, and lack of social contact led some to hard drinking on off-duty time.
Yenne writes a history that comes to life. Although the reputation of the Flying Tiger was well earned, there were hard times too. Being at war is difficult. Being at war with no official support from your own country is even more difficult. Still the Flying Tigers are credited with 297 enemy planes destroyed. Twenty Tiger’s lost their lives in service: 14 in combat, 2 as a result of bombings, and 6 in accidents. Many of the pilots re-entered the military after their contract as second lieutenants and were promoted to major in a matter of months putting them in leadership positions and making use of their experience. The military learned it lesson from WWI when it completely ignored the experience of the Lafayette Escadrille and considered them equal or less than untrained pilots. A remarkable read in real history.
Erik Shilling
When Tigers Ruled the Sky: The Flying Tigers: American Outlaw Pilots over China in World War II by Bill Yenne is a look at the American fighting force in China before America entered the war. Yenne is the author of more than three dozen nonfiction books, as well as several novels and he has contributed to encyclopedias of both world wars, and has been featured in several documentaries which have aired on the History Channel, the National Geographic Channel, the Smithsonian Channel and ARD German Television.
In times of peace, some Americans still long for the adventure of war. In WWI there was the Lafayette Escadrille flying for the French. In the Spanish Civil War the was the Abraham Lincoln Brigade. In World War II it was the American Volunteer Group later to be known as the Flying Tigers. Their P-40 fighters bearing the famous shark-toothed mouth on the engine cowling. The flying tiger logo and its origins remain unknown. One of the members joked that it was odd to be a flying tiger when the planes have shark's teeth painted on them.
Claire Lee Chennault persuaded FDR to allow the creation of this unit and recruited men from the army, navy, and Marines. The men would resign from service and essentially become mercenaries for the Chinese. There would be a one-year contract which began on July 4th, 1941. Many of the details were left out of the contract like the bonus for shooting down Japanese planes and the ability of the group members to rejoin the military after the contract. This was an opportunity many had looked for to gain experience in combat. Between the world wars, America cut back the military and flying time was severely limited.
There are mini-biographies of the key figures in the book. Gregory Hallenbeck applied to become a pilot under the Aviation Cadet Act, closed to married men. Hallenbeck applied anyway and when he received his birth certificate his name was listed as Gregory Boyington. His mother divorced when he was an infant and his stepfather raised him as his own. Gregory Boyington became a Marine pilot and a member of the Flying Tigers.
The Flying Tigers in action reads like a Hollywood adventure movie. Outnumbered by as much as 14-1 , they never lost an air battle. Pilot and plane loss was unbelievably low. The group as a whole was divided into three squadrons: The Adam and Eves, The Panda Bears, and The Hell's Angels. Early conditions were horrible and only a few broke their contracts. Boyington would later pack up and leave in April of 1942 and rejoin the Marines. The duty schedule was heavy and understaffed mechanics had their work cut out for them repairing planes with limited supplies. The difficult duty, bad food, and lack of social contact led some to hard drinking on off-duty time.
Yenne writes a history that comes to life. Although the reputation of the Flying Tiger was well earned, there were hard times too. Being at war is difficult. Being at war with no official support from your own country is even more difficult. Still the Flying Tigers are credited with 297 enemy planes destroyed. Twenty Tiger’s lost their lives in service: 14 in combat, 2 as a result of bombings, and 6 in accidents. Many of the pilots re-entered the military after their contract as second lieutenants and were promoted to major in a matter of months putting them in leadership positions and making use of their experience. The military learned it lesson from WWI when it completely ignored the experience of the Lafayette Escadrille and considered them equal or less than untrained pilots. A remarkable read in real history.
January 19, 2024
When it comes to World War II history, there are countless tales of bravery, heroism, and unexpected alliances. But few stories are as captivating as the one told in this one. From the moment you dive into this thrilling read, you are transported to the chaos and danger of war-ravaged China. Yenne masterfully weaves together personal narratives, historical facts, and a touch of Hollywood-style adventure, making this book a true page-turner. The Flying Tigers, a group of American volunteer pilots, were tasked with defending China against the Japanese invaders. But what sets them apart is their unconventional approach to warfare. These were not just skilled aviators; they were swashbuckling daredevils with a taste for adventure and a knack for mischief. Yenne brings these legendary characters to life, introducing us to the likes of Claire Chennault, the charismatic leader who inspired respect and loyalty from his men. Yemen’s vivid descriptions of aerial combat make you feel the adrenaline rush and the fear that these pilots experienced in every dogfight. You can almost taste the sweat and smell the gunpowder as you turn the pages. But it's not just the action that captivates readers; it's the camaraderie and bonds formed in the face of danger. Yenne skillfully explores the personal lives of these pilots, their hopes, fears, and the sacrifices they made for a cause they believed in. Their individual stories are as compelling as any Hollywood blockbuster. Yenne's attention to detail and extensive research are evident throughout the book, ensuring that history buffs and novices alike will find something to enjoy. “When Tigers Ruled the Sky” is a thrilling ride from start to finish. Bill Yenne's masterful storytelling will leave you craving more tales of these American outlaw pilots. If you're a fan of aviation, World War II history, or just good old-fashioned adventure, this book is a must-read. So buckle up, fasten your seatbelt, and get ready for the wild ride of a lifetime.
August 5, 2022
My Father was in the Army stationed in England during WW2, so I didn't hear much about China from him! There is so much that has been overlooked about that theatre of operations. Honestly, when I picked this book, I had no idea that the first eighty pages were going to be a history lesson that I did not get in school. This book is a real eye opener for me. When the book gets into the Flying Tigers, I was surprised at how little they had to work with against the Japanese Army and Air Forces. This book draws a lot from the memoirs and biographies of the participants. Lots of detail, but I only wished that the author included illustrations of the various planes mentioned.
May 5, 2018
Before December 7, 1941, China was being invaded by Japan. FDR wanted to help them so he“facilitated” the formation of the American Volunteer Group (AVG). This group of 30-40 mercenaries was lead by Claire Lee Chennault and hired by Chiang Kai-shek to fight an air-war against Japan. They fought hundreds of battles and never lost! They would have been more successful with some cooperation from the US and Britain.
I would have given more stars but relating all the battles with Japan and red tape became very repetitive.
I would have given more stars but relating all the battles with Japan and red tape became very repetitive.
December 10, 2024
I've heard mention of the infamous "Flying Tigers" before, but never got a full in-depth look into it's history, and this book gave me exactly that. From the intense battles between Japanese aircraft above Chinese skies, to the satisfying victories that put the US a step closer to liberating the Chinese people. Overall a pretty good book, just a little to informative for my liking and could use a bit more action.
May 7, 2017
An excellent concise narrative history of the American Volunteer Group in China that makes use of memoir literature and documents that have been declassified in recent years. I listened to the book on CD, narrated by Jonathan Yen, a professional voice-over artist, who has a pleasant voice and has no trouble pronouncing names and phrases from numerous languages.
April 1, 2024
Lots of solid information, easy to read, with lots of hints at how much more of the story could still be uncovered and told.
Great to have the narrative anchored amid all the bigger events. Things that were formerly mythological and one-sided now have better context.
Appreciated Yenne's willingness to call the AVG "mercenaries," even if the whole issue remains cloudy.
Great to have the narrative anchored amid all the bigger events. Things that were formerly mythological and one-sided now have better context.
Appreciated Yenne's willingness to call the AVG "mercenaries," even if the whole issue remains cloudy.
November 28, 2018
A really good book. I knew of the Flying Tigers; but I really didn't know much about them. Like everyone, most of my familiarity was from the John Wayne movie of the same name. This was an interesting and in-depth story of one of the most overlooked campaigns of World War 2. I thoroughly enjoyed it and recommend it highly.
July 28, 2022
Great book!
September 27, 2024
great read
Loved the insight on politics. Great human interest stories. Loved the technical insights. Very interesting epilogue. Recommend for any wwii buff.
Loved the insight on politics. Great human interest stories. Loved the technical insights. Very interesting epilogue. Recommend for any wwii buff.
December 29, 2016
Bill Yenne's The Flying Tiger's is more than a historical account of a courageous group of "Outlaw" pilots who strategically outmaneuvered China's offensive, it is also about the heart and souls of American heroes. I remember waltzing into B.J.'s and debating about which book was worth buying -I could not resist the title-It was well worth the money-I let my imagination ignite the archives of our United States Air Force, Navy, and Army history, and was awed by a writer's ability to capture the personalities and personal conflicts before and after as I finally became familiar with the reasons men enlisted -Not all were drafted -which was enlightening. Our Military will always be an enigma to most Americans but even so a critical pathway for many families. Richly woven into the threads of historical documentation are periodic moments of fascinating personalities -the Super male -XYY -begins perhaps before adulthood and the determination to be more pulsates behind the mask of that outlaw. Rich imagery, metaphorical allusions to China and its dueling partner America, and how a group of men grew into the skins of infamy-America's Outlawed Tigers were perhaps more hero than the controversial heat doused over today's vets . The evolutionary ride begins with an entertaining slide into the lives of young men destined for success in spite of the Great "Depressional" fallout , doubts, parental outrage and Chinese birthrights of those who would grow up and become heroic metaphors of what it means to defy the odds.
A prelude to success and a testament to foresight begins well before the young tigers were but glittering possibilities in their parental eyes -"The next war was going to be one of aerial invasion and the bomber plane was going to carry the burden of the offense. But he also saw what few military planners saw, that there would be a very critical need for defensive fighter planes, both for interception and for escort".P20 . Here's to our missionaries, story tellers and legends- They make our American quilt all the wealthier. SAHNBCT2018
A prelude to success and a testament to foresight begins well before the young tigers were but glittering possibilities in their parental eyes -"The next war was going to be one of aerial invasion and the bomber plane was going to carry the burden of the offense. But he also saw what few military planners saw, that there would be a very critical need for defensive fighter planes, both for interception and for escort".P20 . Here's to our missionaries, story tellers and legends- They make our American quilt all the wealthier. SAHNBCT2018
October 18, 2023
The book does occasionally read like a propaganda piece but overall, I found it highly enjoyable. There's only 1 map and place names tend to be cramped on it. I like how the author often provides the current name of a location as well as what it was called at the time. It seems quite well researched. As I said earlier, at times the author seems to exaggerate the exploits of the American Volunteer Group (Flying Tigers). It certainly attained a noteworthy combat record while being hampered by poor logistics. Prior to reading this I was not aware that the AVG flew offensive missions, such as at Salween Gorge or various raids on Japanese airbases or locations. I have read 1, maybe 2, other books on the AVG and this was the most enjoyable.
Displaying 1 - 14 of 14 reviews