Stalin's Had It Now!

Written by James Stevenson

Narrated by James Stevenson

“So you lot want to be pilots? Bloody hell, Stalin’s had it now!” were the withering words of the corporal as he eyed his young National Service recruits for the first time. This autobiographical account, written 60 years later, tells of “the most exciting years” of James Stevenson’s life when, aged 18, he learnt to be a jet fighter pilot with the RAF in Canada. The book is based on carefully preserved letters James wrote home in the 1950s—but also includes some youthful exploits not suitable to reveal to his parents. Not to mention strictly forbidden pretend dog-fights in the air.

• Language: English
• Publisher: Soundings
• Release date: Oct 1, 2015
• ISBN: 9781407956947

James Stevenson

James Stevenson is an op-ed contributor to the New York Times. His popular column, "Lost and Found New York," has appeared regularly in the newspaper since 2003. He was on the staff of The New Yorker for more than three decades; his work includes 2,000 cartoons and 80 covers, as well as reporting and fiction. He is also the author and illustrator of over 100 children's books. He lives in Connecticut.