Skyward by Richard E. Byrd, First Edition, Eleventh Printing, 1931

Byrd, Richard E. Skyward.  New York: Blue Ribbon Books, 1931. Octavo. First edition, eleventh printing. In original hardcover boards and original pictorial dust jacket. Presented in a new archival slipcase. 

This is a 1931 first edition, eleventh printing of Richard Byrd’s Skyward. The book was published in New York by Blue Ribbon Books in 1931. This is the eleventh printing of Skyward, which was first published in 1928. The book is presented in its original hardcover boards and pictorial dust jacket, with a new archival slipcase. Rear admiral Richard E. Byrd (1888-1957) is celebrated as a pioneering American aviator, polar explorer, and organizer of polar logistics.  

Skyward is the story of the pilot and explorer who gave rise to American aviation. In this memoir, Byrd dramatically recreates the nascent and dangerous years of American flight. The volume recounts Byrd's early life, his introduction to flying, and his arrival at Pensacola Air Station. The book elaborates on the necessary courage mustered by Byrd and his fellow comrades who flew during the War, the first military pilots in the history of America. 

Skyward vividly details the hazards of reaching the North Pole by air, the adventures of the first transatlantic flights, as well as Byrd's fight to persuade Congress and the U.S. Navy to continue their involvement in the new venture called aviation. Also chronicled is the planning of Byrd's initial exploration and flight into Antarctica and over the South Pole. 

Like the accounts of Lindbergh and Shackleton, Byrd's memoir is one of courage, science, and human achievement. Admiral Byrd’s classic explorations by land, air, and sea transport us to the farthest reaches of the globe. Fascinating and revealing, this book serves to inspire more intrepid explorers to follow in his footsteps. 

CONDITION:

Very good condition. Octavo. In original hardcover boards and original pictorial dust jacket. Chipping to jacket, especially along top spine and corners. Both boards and dust jackets have been cleaned and stabilized by a book conservator. Interior pages are healthy with only light toning. Previous owner's inscription in pen on front flyleaf. Presented in a new archival slipcase by Byrd’s photograph inlaid on the front. 

Dimensions: 8 1/2" H x 5 3/4 " W x 1 3/4" D (Book). 8 7/8" H x 6" W x 2 1/8" D (Slipcase).