visions_of_a_flying_machine-the_wright_brothers_and_the_process_of_invention

by Peter L. Jakab

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Genres: History, Biography, Nonfiction, Aviation

Paperback

First published January 1, 1990

Reviews

[E · Rating 5 out of 5]

If you want the MEAT, this book is it. It focuses on the painstaking mental and physical labor as well as the technicalities and logistics of their phenomenal work, and the author has a solid understanding of their distinct personalities — which adds depth to why they were able to do what they did together. It celebrates their intelligence (both as individuals and within their partnership) and profound creativity. This book is so, so, so good.

[Howard Mansfield · Rating 5 out of 5]

Peter Jakab’s Visions of a Flying Machine is the best explanation of how the Wrights actually invented the aeroplane. Visions of a Flying Machine is concise and brilliant. Press this book into the hands of anyone who says so-and-so flew first. Jakab’s book will introduce them to the fundamental problems that the Wrights solved to achieve powered flight.

[Ryan Richards · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is delightful. Extremely well researched, not bogged down with minutiae, and very accessible. I read for the purpose of understanding the mechanical engineering prowess that these men had. Excellent book. Will likely reread in years to come.

[Jon Koebrick · Rating 3 out of 5]

A good telling of how the Wright brothers systematically figured out how to make a machine fly using simple yet innovative testing.

[Scott · Rating 5 out of 5]

A history book that focuses on the engineering principles, the brothers process, and the technical obstacles they overcame to discover powered flight. Excellent!