I'd heard about the legendary plane and her crew before, and the story Lucky 666 recounts here is a must read. How Hollywood hasn't made a movie about Old 666 (or "Lucy," the title B-17 aircraft's two actual real names) is beyond me, but the only thing I can think of is that maybe some things are even too unbelievable or just too real for Fantasyland. But that's where the irony lies-there was absolutely nothing lucky about Lucky 666. She was a crew of hard-working American kids that were confident, inventive, rebellious, patriotic, and willing to kill and die for one another and for everyone back home, at a time when that really meant something. Their sacrifice and willingness to get the job done and to go home in peace is a large part of why we hold the Greatest Generation in such high regards. Bob Drury and Tom Clavin do a valuable service to the memories of the men of the most highly decorated air crew in U.S. history.

As I read this book I kept asking myself where did these men come from and what drove them to do such extraordinary things, even at a risk to their own lives. It is only fitting that we thank them everyday for their service for we would not have the lives we live today had it not been for them. Sadly there are so few of them left to say thank you to.

Most World War II books are written about the European Theatre, but few are written about the war that took place in the South Pacific, especially the area of Australia and New Guinea.

This story is about some dedicated Army pilots that were so determined to fly, and to fly the most dangerous missions that they stood in line to volunteer. The crew of “Lucky 666” was just those types of airmen. When they could not get assigned a plane they built a B-17 from spare parts, I kid you not. They flew the Lucky 666 on the most dangerous mission, one with little chance of survival, that would save American lives and open up the South Pacific for an American Victory.

This book is an absolute must for World War II enthusiasts and those looking for a read that is both exciting and uplifting. I found the book difficult to put down, especially as they make their final run on the impossible mission.

Another 6 STAR book.

NOT just our history but of the MEN that made it.

Today we think IPHONES are heroic or kneeling football players. Listen read this book for the TRUTH about heroes, forgotten men who risked their lives for their country and they are a true reminder of what WE WERE and sadly what we ARE NO LONGER!
Great book, the exploits read like fiction but they are FACT. You are in for a real treat!!!!!

I received a free Kindle copy of this book courtesy of Net Galley and Simon, Shuster the publisher. It was with the understanding that I would write a review and place it on Net Galley, Goodreads, Amazon and my history book review blog. I also posted it on my Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn and Google Plus pages.

I requested this book because I am an avid reader of american history with an emphasis on World War II among others. This is the first book by Bob Drury and Tom Clavin that I have read.

This book is well written and engaging. It depicts the buildup and mission of B-17 666 that was rebuilt by a crew of individuals who did not always fit with the military approach. The book does a very good job of describing the mission and the fierce air battle that ensued in order for 66 to return. It focuses primarily on two individuals - Jay Zeamer and Joe Sarnoski and gives much less detail to the rest of the crew.

At times the book falls into historical fiction, in particular when recounting what the crew members were thinking at different times (they all passed away years ago). There is also some dispute as to the accuracy of a number of items in the book including the actual crew members.

I recommend this book to anyone who is looking for a good read on an event in World War II, but keeping in mind that it may not be entirely accurate history.