This is a very readable, well-paced and good-natured autobiography of an extraordinary and accomplished person. The splendid cover picture of the iconic Sukhoi 26 should not deter the prospective reader who fears that they may be confronted by wall-to-wall piloting exploits: far from it. This is a whole life story, which confirms my opinion that nurture, in all its forms, is far more significant than nature.

Aristotle considered early life-experience, up to the age of seven, to be the definitive factor in the building of character and personality. While aged nine, Richard Goode’s journey home from school took a week, by air! His parents lived 6,000 miles away, and only an annual home visit was practical. On one of these travels something concerned him: he could not remember what they looked liked. And worse - would they remember what he looked like? Would he be left alone, unrecognised at the airport; a continent and ocean away from the nearest familiar face?

All was well, and this unusual personal history does not hint at dysfunctional parenting; quite the opposite, Exposure to different people, continents, cultures and languages can only add self-confidence, adaptability of mind and an inclusiveness of attitude that those of a more parentally-smothered early life may lack. I will leave the reader to discover how a four year old’s grandmother in CapeTown was shocked at his complete absence of the English language, or to read about the shocking Tiger Moth event that triggered an early interest in aeroplanes. The book contains enough about competition and display aerobatics, including a serious accident and injury resulting from structural failure, but it’s the variety of interests, all pursued with vigour, perception and eye-watering confidence that make this a remarkable biography.

How do I know about these things? I’m completely different: it’s as plain as a pikestaff. Goode’s legal training, head-hunting interview technique, and enthusiasm to take on huge historic building restorations leave one gasping in amazement. But there’s more, much more . . . .

Highly recommended - and not just for flying enthusiasts.

Available from the author, who will gladly sign copies.

Richard’s WEBSITE