B-24 Liberator

This latest title from Squadron/Signal is an all-new monograph on the B-24 Liberator by author Bill Holder and graphics from the three "DG"s: Don Greer, Darren Glenn & David Gebhardt. The narrative provides a quick rundown of the history of the B-24, the different variants of the aircraft, and the theaters of operation it served.

Unlike typical historical references however, this is one of the first titles to explain to me WHY the B-24 was such a handful to fly and how its flying characteristics compared with the B-17. There have been cartoons from WW2 that depict B-24 pilots with one muscular arm, the one that holds on to the yoke. This title explains why the B-24 required so much attention from the crews to stay airborne, and even more so to stay in formation!

As with all Squadron/Signal publications, this title is full of excellent photography. The author used many photos that I've not seen before as well as a few of the more significant photos of the B-24 that are popular topics. You can see with the image on the right some of the color photos that are on the rear of the title.

The three DGs pick up the story with 32 nice color profiles of various B-24 subjects, two of a shark-mouthed P-47 escort, and one PB4Y-2 Privateer.

With the recent re-releases of the Revell-Monogram 1/48 B-24D and B-24J kits, this will definitely provide a great reference for the modeler as well as for the aviation historian. You can get this title from your favorite book seller, hobby shop, or directly from Squadron Mail Order (www.squadron.com).

My sincere thanks to Squadron/Signal Publications for this review sample!