Malta Spitfire

The Diary of a Fighter Pilot

By: George Beurling

Narrated by: Roger Davis

25,000 feet above Malta - that is where the Spitfires intercepted the Messerschmitts, Macchis and Reggianes as they swept eastwards in their droves, screening the big Junkers with their bomb loads as they pummeled the island beneath - the most bombed patch of ground in the world.

One of those Spitfire pilots was George Beurling, nicknamed "Screwball," who in 14 flying days destroyed 27 German and Italian aircraft and damaged many more. Hailing originally from Canada, after hard training and combat across the Channel, Beurling finally made it to Malta in the summer of 1942. Malta Spitfire tells his story and that of the gallant Spitfire squadron, 249, which day after day climbed to the top of the hill to meet the enemy against overwhelming odds.

The listener has almost the sensation of being in the cockpit with him, climbing to meet the planes driving in from Sicily, diving down through the fighter screen at the bombers, dodging the bullets coming out of the sun, or whipping up under the belly of an Me for a deflection shot at the engine. This is war without sentiment or romance, told in terms of human courage, skill and heroism. A classic, first published in 1943.

©2011 Grub Street (P)2017 Grub Street

Gripping and Informative

Really interesting story. A straight from the hip account of a fighter pilot from Canada in the RAF.

The narrative style can be difficult to follow as it switches between first person and third person with no change in narration style. Narration is pretty good but the heavy accent may take some getting used to.

great book. well and properly narrated. loved it

this book is actually very good
very well narrated
recommend it to all interested in WW II aviation history

Excellent story!

Excellent story from start to finish, well written and well narrated. I highly recommend this book, I don’t think anyone is interested in WW2 aviation will be disappointed.