Customer Reviews

The Berlin Candy Bomber

5 star:		(6)
4 star:		(4)
3 star:		(0)
2 star:		(0)
1 star:		(0)

 

 

Gail Halvorsen has written a vivid account of this increadible time in history, and how two sticks of gum were the beginning of a mission that brought hope to the children of a besieged West Berlin. This book takes you back to 1948 like no movie ever could, and makes you appreciate the huge efforts by ordinary people to keep West Berlin free from Soviet opression.
Although the book sometimes drifts in focus, as many autobiographies do, it is such a heart-warming story told by such a selfless and compationate man, that it is difficult to fault.
The story is inspirational and stands in stark contrast to the evils exhibited by men in the wars that ultimately led to the airlift. The world would obviously be no worse off with a few extra Uncle Wiggly Wings.

In a world which has all but forgotten how Stalin tried to starve West Berlin into surrender to Communism in 1948, "The Berlin Candy Bomber" is a testimonial to those who say "NO!" to tiranny. Common threads are woven all thru the book - the universal appeal of freedom, even among people who have only know opression; the fellowhip of humankind, found everywhere in children; and, yes, the author's love and compassion for children. Halvorsen's fervor in his humanitarian service is of an almost missionary nature, quite infectious (in a good sense!!!) The only complaints I have are for the editing (better proofreading is needed); the author's tendency to drift at times; the technicality of many sections (not everyone knows enough about aviation to understand the lingo) and the relative lack of information on the Airlift after the author was ordered back to the States.

These factors aside, I loved the book, and was quite moved by it - especially in regards to the personal narrations by the (then) children of West Berlin. It's funny, witty and poignant at turns. Thank you, Mr. Halvorsen - it is a beautiful work.

I purchased Mercedes and the Chocolate Pilot for my god daughter because I liked the message. When I saw that there was a more in-depth description of the "candy bombing" for adults, I had to read it. Though the story is sometimes a little too detailed with specifics geared to pilots, don't let that deter you from an inspiring read. After reading this book, you can't help but wonder what magic you can make with the smallest of deeds or resources.

After meeting Mr. Halversen and reading his book I feel it should be required reading for every American.

I am proud to say that I have crewed with Col. Halvorsen at several air shows. His book is a wonderful first-hand account of what is in my opinion, one of the most important events of the Twentieth Century. Any body who has any interest in history or humanity should read this book. If it were up to me, ALL high school students would read this book. Our society could definitely benefit from it's message.

The Berlin Candy Bomber deals with what was perhaps one of America's greatest time periods. Were in in my power it would be a must read in every high school, and in a way our Churches would be better off for reading it. How these people turned off the war instinct and went on to save millions of people, and then go beyond it to bring love and care for little kids sets a standard that few of us could meet.

A personal account by THE Candy Bomber.
Halvorsen's writing is somewhat folksy and very human.
You will love reading of his wonderful experiences during times of stress and uncertainty. And feel the strength of the Berliners desire for freedom. And appreciate the generosity of the American people to a recent enemy. Great power in this first-person history!
As with many books these days, there are several typo's in the printing.

This book is very well written, especially considering it was written by a pilot, not an "author." The story told in this book is one of the best you'll find, as it was written by THE Candy Bomber, himself. It's not too long, it's an easy read. Very engaging - I highly recommend it if you're even remotely interested in the Berlin Airlift.

Col. Halvorsen was not only an excellent pilot and great humanitarian, but he's also an excellent writer. Although I've never met him, the book gives the reader a great picture of the man and his vision for making the world a better place. Being a pilot, I was especially interested in his descriptions of what it was like flying in congested airspace in inclement weather with only minimal electronic aids to navigation, as was the case in the late 1940s. The 2010 book includes an afterword detailing what has happened as far as recognitions and experiences since the original publication. There are other books detailing his exploits, but if you want the entire, first hand account, this is the volume to have. KBYU TV in Provo, Utah, has done an hour long program with a great deal of video footage of Col. Halvorsen in their "Inspirational Lives" series. As of this writing, the program is available as a free download by going to the KBYU TV website. Even though he's of an advanced age, his youthful enthusiasm and energy still comes through as though he was only half his age.

I throughly enjoyed this book.