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Reviewed by Carol Thompson for Readers' Favorite
Shirley M. Phillips’ How Not to Fly an Airplane: A Female Pilot’s Journey is a compelling memoir that takes readers through the highs and lows of her groundbreaking career as a female pilot in a male-dominated industry. With humor, candor, and emotional depth, Phillips recounts her experiences, from her first flying lessons at fourteen to her struggles as a mother of a child with disabilities, all while navigating the challenges of being one of the few women in aviation. The book is structured as a series of essays, each offering a vivid snapshot of Phillips’ life. Her storytelling is engaging, whether she’s describing the adrenaline of emergency landings, the camaraderie (and occasional conflict) with colleagues, or the sexism she faced in her profession. Phillips doesn’t shy away from the darker moments, such as the tragic loss of a student or her own debilitating medical condition, but she balances these with inspiring tales of perseverance and triumph.
One of the standout features of the book is its glossary, which provides clear explanations of aviation terms and concepts, such as "autoland," "crew resource management," and "fly-by-wire." This addition makes the memoir accessible to readers who may not be familiar with the technical aspects of flying, enhancing their understanding of Phillips’ experiences. While the memoir is rich in aviation anecdotes, it also explores Phillips’ personal life, including her role as a mother and her battle with chronic illness. How Not to Fly an Airplane is an inspiring and thought-provoking read. This memoir is a must-read for anyone interested in aviation, gender equality, or simply a well-told story of overcoming the odds. I guarantee it's one of the best books you'll read this year.
