Spitfire : the One Hardback

Someone once wrote: "The Spitfire is as much a British national hero as Wellington, Nelson or Montgomery.

It has become the recognisable icon of the Second World War for several generations of Britons.

From the throaty growl of its Rolls-Royce Merlin or Griffon engine to its beautifully tapered elliptical wings, the Spitfire is a true aeronautical thoroughbred.

Regarded by many as the saviour of the nation 'in its darkest hour', the Spitfire is without doubt the most famous combat aircraft ever produced in Britain and probably anywhere else.""Spitfire: The One", the new title from Philip Kaplan, leading author of many books on aviation, military and naval history, is a result of his collaboration with shipping magnate, Peter Livanos, himself a collector of classic aircraft.

It is centred on Livanos' Spitfire, the only airworthy Mk I in the world, and its restoration.This heavily illustrated new book presents the Spitfire as an aircraft type in an attractive, colourful format.

Like the restoration itself, nothing has been spared in producing an unusually handsome book to celebrate all aspects of the Spitfire legend and the Livanos example of it.Of the many books that have been written about the Spitfire, relatively few might be considered appropriate tributes to the fighter which, along with its partner the Hawker Hurricane, saved Britain from Nazi invasion, changing the course of the Second World War. "Spitfire: The One" joins those special few in bringing a unique look at R.J.

Mitchell's lovely, deadly creation.