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Fly For Your Life: The Story of Spitfire & Hurricane Ace Robert Stanford Tuck
Fly For Your Life is the true story of Royal Air Force (RAF) Ace Robert Stanford Tuck. Thrust into a leadership role amidst the chaos of the Dunkirk evacuation, Tuck would distinguish himself as one of the RAF’s elite officers becoming the first Spitfire Ace.
Further challenging times for Tuck would lie ahead in the coming months when Britain was in terrible danger. Nazi Germany was planning an invasion and the fighter pilots of the RAF would be at the forefront of Britain’s defense. In what would become known as the Battle of Britain; Tuck would show relentless commitment, extraordinary skill, and steely nerve when faced against the better equipped, larger German Luftwaffe. He would be shot down, crash land, and plucked out of the sea. Each time, returning to the fray to fly again.
Tuck would go on to become one of the leading aces in the RAF, credited with 29 confirmed kills and decorated with the Distinguished Service Order. Earning his place in history with the immortal company of World War I aces Ball, Bishop, Mannock, and Collishaw.
Further challenging times for Tuck would lie ahead in the coming months when Britain was in terrible danger. Nazi Germany was planning an invasion and the fighter pilots of the RAF would be at the forefront of Britain’s defense. In what would become known as the Battle of Britain; Tuck would show relentless commitment, extraordinary skill, and steely nerve when faced against the better equipped, larger German Luftwaffe. He would be shot down, crash land, and plucked out of the sea. Each time, returning to the fray to fly again.
Tuck would go on to become one of the leading aces in the RAF, credited with 29 confirmed kills and decorated with the Distinguished Service Order. Earning his place in history with the immortal company of World War I aces Ball, Bishop, Mannock, and Collishaw.
378 pages, Paperback
Published October 19, 2022
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Displaying 1 - 17 of 17 reviews
May 15, 2023
Thank you The Book Network and Acquisition Analytics for the book "Fly for your life" by Larry Forrester and S.A. Steel.
Robert Stanford Tuck was the most experienced pilot and marksman. He was an extraordinary Spitfire Ace. He was one of the best fighter pilots of the British Air Force (RAF). Robert led the evacuation of Dunkirk and participated in the Battle of Britain. He must have been a great man. Thanks to the book Fly for your life, I learned that in 2022 there was only one fighter pilot alive - John Hemingway, who fought in the Battle of Britain from July to October 1940. The first edition of this book was in Great Britain in 1956. Original photographs appear in this 2022 issue. I'm glad I could read it. This book absorbed me completely. I love books related to the Second World War. The introduction and conclusion of this book were written by S.A. Steele. The rest, not counting the photos, was created by Larry Forrester. Thank you for sharing this unforgettable story. Did Great Britain have a chance to win the war against the great Luftwaffe? With Tuck at the helm, the impossible became possible. You can learn a lot from the legends about this hero. Some say he was carefree, reckless and always smiling. Others say Tuck was a flying fanatic, raw and psychopathically bloodthirsty. But what was he really like? You will find out by reading the book "Fly for your life". Was he injured during World War II? Reading how Tuck was in the war felt like I was in it too. I felt bullets fly past me. The enemy was very close. The author perfectly described all the missions of Robert Stanford Tuck. My biggest fear was for Tuck when his machine got caught in the crossfire. His friends who were flying next to him were also terrified. For a moment, my heart stopped. His words, "This time I'm really done for." brought tears to my eyes. I secretly hoped that he would survive this and not let himself be killed by the Germans. In his last seconds, he thought about his beloved Joyce. Brilliant book. It's worth it and you should read it. Get your tissues ready right away. I found out what Tuck's family looked like and what his childhood was like. From this book, you will even find out what his nickname was. I will tell you that it is very interesting. I was very curious how Tuck got into the British Air Force. Did you know that our hero started in the Navy? While reading this book, I was literally terrified at times. Reading how our hero bled out, tears flowed down my cheeks. I was secretly hoping he would make it out alive. The perfect book for anyone who loves history and World War II. What about Dunkirk? How did the fighters deal with the enemies? Tuck was devastated after the tragic death of his brother-in-law. Why? I was shocked to learn the reasons for his malaise. What is he hiding from his family? The end of the book made my heart stop for a moment. Our hero as a pilot never hated his enemy. Finally, I found information about what happened after the war to some of the people mentioned in this book. Are you curious about what the Battle of Britain really looked like? If you answered yes, then I refer you to the book "Fly for your life". It's worth reading. I am very pleased with it. I had shivers down my spine reading this book. If you are interested in history, World War II and aviation, you've come to the right place. You can't get bored with this book. A very exciting story.
Robert Stanford Tuck was the most experienced pilot and marksman. He was an extraordinary Spitfire Ace. He was one of the best fighter pilots of the British Air Force (RAF). Robert led the evacuation of Dunkirk and participated in the Battle of Britain. He must have been a great man. Thanks to the book Fly for your life, I learned that in 2022 there was only one fighter pilot alive - John Hemingway, who fought in the Battle of Britain from July to October 1940. The first edition of this book was in Great Britain in 1956. Original photographs appear in this 2022 issue. I'm glad I could read it. This book absorbed me completely. I love books related to the Second World War. The introduction and conclusion of this book were written by S.A. Steele. The rest, not counting the photos, was created by Larry Forrester. Thank you for sharing this unforgettable story. Did Great Britain have a chance to win the war against the great Luftwaffe? With Tuck at the helm, the impossible became possible. You can learn a lot from the legends about this hero. Some say he was carefree, reckless and always smiling. Others say Tuck was a flying fanatic, raw and psychopathically bloodthirsty. But what was he really like? You will find out by reading the book "Fly for your life". Was he injured during World War II? Reading how Tuck was in the war felt like I was in it too. I felt bullets fly past me. The enemy was very close. The author perfectly described all the missions of Robert Stanford Tuck. My biggest fear was for Tuck when his machine got caught in the crossfire. His friends who were flying next to him were also terrified. For a moment, my heart stopped. His words, "This time I'm really done for." brought tears to my eyes. I secretly hoped that he would survive this and not let himself be killed by the Germans. In his last seconds, he thought about his beloved Joyce. Brilliant book. It's worth it and you should read it. Get your tissues ready right away. I found out what Tuck's family looked like and what his childhood was like. From this book, you will even find out what his nickname was. I will tell you that it is very interesting. I was very curious how Tuck got into the British Air Force. Did you know that our hero started in the Navy? While reading this book, I was literally terrified at times. Reading how our hero bled out, tears flowed down my cheeks. I was secretly hoping he would make it out alive. The perfect book for anyone who loves history and World War II. What about Dunkirk? How did the fighters deal with the enemies? Tuck was devastated after the tragic death of his brother-in-law. Why? I was shocked to learn the reasons for his malaise. What is he hiding from his family? The end of the book made my heart stop for a moment. Our hero as a pilot never hated his enemy. Finally, I found information about what happened after the war to some of the people mentioned in this book. Are you curious about what the Battle of Britain really looked like? If you answered yes, then I refer you to the book "Fly for your life". It's worth reading. I am very pleased with it. I had shivers down my spine reading this book. If you are interested in history, World War II and aviation, you've come to the right place. You can't get bored with this book. A very exciting story.
May 22, 2023
This has been a quite delightful read, eloquently written and capturing the very essence of the early part of WWII. The author captures Tuck’s complex character really well, explaining the often dark aspect to his nature and behaviour. The reader is carried into Tuck’s world where, in the air he is naturally at one with his aircraft, his movement and control coming naturally and in many senses, unbidden. Yet, outside of the cockpit he can be obstinate, difficult to read, argumentative and bloody single-minded. We gain insight into Tuck’s drive to be the best pilot he can possibly be, comfortable with taking risks and pushing his limits, in search of his ultimate capabilities. Forrester creates a vivid picture of Tuck and his life.
The author’s research brings alive how highly skilled and dedicated to overcoming the Luftwaffe’s overwhelming odds, Tuck is, whilst being equally focussed on his men. Forrester explains Tuck’s leadership style and how after one transfer, he inherited a disparate unit, that he moulded into an effective fighting force. We can sense Tuck’s passion to have the best fighting platform and how this led him into conflict with the Air Ministry and fellow aces, as he argued for the more effect cannons to be added to Spitfires and Hurricanes. His combative relationship with Douglas Bader is explained and I found this particularly interesting.
Forrester’s writing allows us to feel the emotions Tuck has to manage. The nature of the air war, meant a limited lifespan for many young pilots and as friends are killed, we feel Tuck wrestle with the need to lead men into battle, whilst remaining coldly detached and focused on his objectives.
The story is well rounded, covering how stress is relieved by bawdy evenings in pubs (I swear I could smell the beer and wooden floors) and the occasional trip to London, where the author evokes the combination of the blackout, destruction and indomitable British spirit. It was enlightening to be taken away from the relentless combat and understand his evolving relationship with the dependable Joyce. She astutely understands his complex character, when to engage with him and when to give him the space he needs.
Forrester moves on to cover Tuck’s internment, following a crash landing in occupied territory. Again, Tuck’s spirit and determination are vividly described and brought to life for the reader.
I highly recommend this book to anyone with an interest in WWII, air combat or the nature of human relationships and characters under great stress. The prose is easy to consume and never fails to hold the reader’s interest.
The author’s research brings alive how highly skilled and dedicated to overcoming the Luftwaffe’s overwhelming odds, Tuck is, whilst being equally focussed on his men. Forrester explains Tuck’s leadership style and how after one transfer, he inherited a disparate unit, that he moulded into an effective fighting force. We can sense Tuck’s passion to have the best fighting platform and how this led him into conflict with the Air Ministry and fellow aces, as he argued for the more effect cannons to be added to Spitfires and Hurricanes. His combative relationship with Douglas Bader is explained and I found this particularly interesting.
Forrester’s writing allows us to feel the emotions Tuck has to manage. The nature of the air war, meant a limited lifespan for many young pilots and as friends are killed, we feel Tuck wrestle with the need to lead men into battle, whilst remaining coldly detached and focused on his objectives.
The story is well rounded, covering how stress is relieved by bawdy evenings in pubs (I swear I could smell the beer and wooden floors) and the occasional trip to London, where the author evokes the combination of the blackout, destruction and indomitable British spirit. It was enlightening to be taken away from the relentless combat and understand his evolving relationship with the dependable Joyce. She astutely understands his complex character, when to engage with him and when to give him the space he needs.
Forrester moves on to cover Tuck’s internment, following a crash landing in occupied territory. Again, Tuck’s spirit and determination are vividly described and brought to life for the reader.
I highly recommend this book to anyone with an interest in WWII, air combat or the nature of human relationships and characters under great stress. The prose is easy to consume and never fails to hold the reader’s interest.
July 26, 2025
Larry Forrester and S.A. Steele’s “Fly For Your Life: The Story of Spitfire & Hurricane Ace Robert Stanford Tuck” is a triumph of biography, breathing vibrant life into the cockpit and character of one of Britain’s greatest Second World War fighter aces. This gripping narrative soars beyond the familiar confines of war memoir, artfully blending exhilarating aerial action with a deeply human portrait of Robert Stanford Tuck—a man whose courage and complexity helped shape the course of the Battle of Britain. From the opening pages, the book thrusts readers into the swirling dogfights over Dunkirk and the heart-stopping defense of Britain’s skies. Tuck’s exploits—29 confirmed victories, and a reputation for derring-do and leadership—are recounted with all the tension and color you’d expect. But what elevates this biography is its honest exploration of the man behind the legend. Forrester and Steele don’t settle for easy hero worship; they illuminate Tuck’s steely determination, his darker moods, and the relentless drive that pushed him to the aerial frontlines time and again, no matter the cost. The authors deftly sketch the camaraderie, risk, and heartbreak of RAF life, inviting readers into the tedium between sorties and the edge-of-the-seat terror when the Luftwaffe swarms. With vivid prose, they describe how Tuck transformed a demoralized squadron into a fearsome fighting force, his clashes with Air Ministry politics, and a fascinating, occasionally fractious friendship with the equally legendary Douglas Bader. Equally compelling is the chronicle of Tuck’s resilience in captivity, his attempts at escape, and his post-war journey—a testament to both the trauma and the enduring friendships forged in conflict. The book appeals not only to aviation lovers but to anyone fascinated by the extremes of human character during adversity. It’s impossible to leave Tuck’s story unmoved; his bravery is infectious, and his flaws wholly relatable. “Fly For Your Life” stands as both an exciting war chronicle and an inspiring tribute to the indomitable spirit that defines our heroes. Turn the first page, and prepare to be airborne—this is a biography that truly flies.
May 23, 2023
What an awe inspiring story. I love anything to do with WWII, but have to admit I’ve not read much about The RAF, so when this tour was announced I jumped at the chance.
This is a must for all who are interested in WWII or even autobiographies. It is definitely one of the best I’ve read.
I loved being able to read about this man’s incredible life. Such determination, bravery and skill made him this formidable force, but one fact I learnt, that made me chuckle and get my first insight into the kind of man he was, is to do with when he was home on leave from the Merchant Navy and saw a simple advertisement in the daily newspaper saying “Fly With The R.A.F.!” and that was all it took!
He didn’t need to read any pamphlets or anything, he did as the advert said, and thank god he did!
And that’s just the tip of the ‘spitfire nose cone’ lol wait until read about The Battle of Britain and facing the German Luftwaffe. What amazing fortitude, determination and, of course skill.
Another aspect I love is at the end titled After The War. These amazing men were so instrumental in Tuck’s career and life, I was so grateful to be able to read about what happened to them.
A fantastic read and one I highly recommend. ♥️
This is a must for all who are interested in WWII or even autobiographies. It is definitely one of the best I’ve read.
I loved being able to read about this man’s incredible life. Such determination, bravery and skill made him this formidable force, but one fact I learnt, that made me chuckle and get my first insight into the kind of man he was, is to do with when he was home on leave from the Merchant Navy and saw a simple advertisement in the daily newspaper saying “Fly With The R.A.F.!” and that was all it took!
He didn’t need to read any pamphlets or anything, he did as the advert said, and thank god he did!
And that’s just the tip of the ‘spitfire nose cone’ lol wait until read about The Battle of Britain and facing the German Luftwaffe. What amazing fortitude, determination and, of course skill.
Another aspect I love is at the end titled After The War. These amazing men were so instrumental in Tuck’s career and life, I was so grateful to be able to read about what happened to them.
A fantastic read and one I highly recommend. ♥️
November 18, 2023
Fly For Your Life by Larry Forrester was originally published in 1956. It was re-released in 2022 with an introduction and conclusion by S.A Steele, and some authentic photographs from the Imperial War Museum.
It tells the incredible true story of Robert Stanford Tuck, one of "the few". During the evacuation of Dunkirk, Tuck quickly distinguished himself as one of the RAFs elite officers, becoming the first Spitfire ACE.
As the war raged on,Tuck continued to show incredible courage, skill, and commitment during what became known as the Battle of Britain.
I don't want to give too much away, but I'm in awe of the bravery of Tuck and the other pilots who defended Britain against the Luftwaffe, who were better equipped and much larger. In the words of Winston Churchill, "never in the field of human conflict was so much owed by so many to do few"
I would highly recommend this book to anyone who's got an interest in history, WW2, the RAF, or who just wants a great read!
It tells the incredible true story of Robert Stanford Tuck, one of "the few". During the evacuation of Dunkirk, Tuck quickly distinguished himself as one of the RAFs elite officers, becoming the first Spitfire ACE.
As the war raged on,Tuck continued to show incredible courage, skill, and commitment during what became known as the Battle of Britain.
I don't want to give too much away, but I'm in awe of the bravery of Tuck and the other pilots who defended Britain against the Luftwaffe, who were better equipped and much larger. In the words of Winston Churchill, "never in the field of human conflict was so much owed by so many to do few"
I would highly recommend this book to anyone who's got an interest in history, WW2, the RAF, or who just wants a great read!
April 24, 2023
Fly for your life -
Now this is not a book I’d normally pick up but after seeing it was a true story I was curious and wanted to push myself out of my comfort zone. This was a fast paced true life story of Stanford tucks RAF career as a pilot and oh my what an amazing story it was, a brave and natural leader that was truly inspiring in many ways. The story was told beautifully and was extremely detailed but also easy to follow. I loved that real photographs have been added into the book and also extra facts along the way. If you’re interested in the history of the RAF then you definitely need to give this book ago. 4 stars from me ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Now this is not a book I’d normally pick up but after seeing it was a true story I was curious and wanted to push myself out of my comfort zone. This was a fast paced true life story of Stanford tucks RAF career as a pilot and oh my what an amazing story it was, a brave and natural leader that was truly inspiring in many ways. The story was told beautifully and was extremely detailed but also easy to follow. I loved that real photographs have been added into the book and also extra facts along the way. If you’re interested in the history of the RAF then you definitely need to give this book ago. 4 stars from me ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
October 21, 2022
Insightful and Educational
A must-read for Second World War history enthusiasts. Steele does a wonderful job of reintroducing Forrester’s work in an interesting and engaging manner.
A must-read for Second World War history enthusiasts. Steele does a wonderful job of reintroducing Forrester’s work in an interesting and engaging manner.
November 7, 2024
a fighter
I read this before many years ago, more than 30 I’d say. It still resonates as a fine example of how the RAF beat the German Airforce. One has to take account that it was written long ago and the style reflects this.
I read this before many years ago, more than 30 I’d say. It still resonates as a fine example of how the RAF beat the German Airforce. One has to take account that it was written long ago and the style reflects this.
February 9, 2025
Very good read.
A very good and interesting read. I really enjoyed it; what men these pilots were! That is not to detract from the bomber crews who also had really exceptional losses, particularly early in the war, bombing Germany.
A very good and interesting read. I really enjoyed it; what men these pilots were! That is not to detract from the bomber crews who also had really exceptional losses, particularly early in the war, bombing Germany.
Read
May 27, 2023This was an incredible story, told incredibly well. Tuck was a larger than life character. I am honored to have learned his story,
December 30, 2023
An outstanding career.
Once started could not put this book down. Incredible bravery all these pilots had. Extremely well written and researched account .
Once started could not put this book down. Incredible bravery all these pilots had. Extremely well written and researched account .
January 1, 2024
One of the best books I have read about one of the RAF hero’s. Of the battle on Britain and the whole war
February 25, 2024
Excellent!
September 25, 2024
I didn’t want it to end so I slowed down, put it on pause. Came back to reread it entirely and enjoyed it immensely. Amazing flying stories and I really enjoyed the writing.
December 7, 2024
Fantastic account
Very interesting and compelling account of the adventures and trials of RAF pilots during the war. A well written book.
Very interesting and compelling account of the adventures and trials of RAF pilots during the war. A well written book.
June 23, 2025
Another must read history book.
The brave that saved us from the Fascists. How many of us could endure such fear and torture and hard times?
The brave that saved us from the Fascists. How many of us could endure such fear and torture and hard times?
July 20, 2025
great information about Bob Tuck, but not written very well.
Displaying 1 - 17 of 17 reviews