What people are saying:
Joy Shipway (TAA Air Hostess, Retired): Barefoot to Boeings gave me an insight into a commercial pilot's life particularly TAA because I was an air hostess with TAA from 1952-55. I was able to look at the internal TAA politics from a pilot's point of view which was entirely different from mine. For me, it was a page-turner, and for my cousin, an aircraft engineer the same. If you dream of becoming a pilot this is the book to read. You will learn that learning to fly is hard work but rewarding.
Lloyd Smith (Captain, Retired): As a junior First Officer with TAA in the early 70's if I knew I would be rostered to fly with Brian I knew it was going to be an enjoyable few days flying. I always had an open cockpit door policy for my passengers. Many times some would say they would like to have become a pilot, but it looked too hard. They should have been given Brian's book.
Andrew Jobling (Author-Writer-Speaker-Mentor): Barefoot to Boeings is a wonderful story of a feisty, adventurous and courageous man. Karen has been able to capture the true spirit of Brian, his life and his aviation journey. This book made me laugh, cry and reflect on a time when there was no technology, as we are spoiled with today. A time when true grit, an adventurous spirit and a sense of humour were all you needed for an incredible achievement. I would recommend this book for anyone who wants to be inspired, entertained and engaged. Karen has done a wonderful job and is a talented author. I loved it!
Julie Athanasiou: Legacy Books, Victoria: Barefoot to Boeings is the inspiring story of a boy who dreamed who could fly and who did! Rural Australia has bred many rousing stories, and the tale of Brian Crane's rise from barefoot lad to TAA Boeing pilot is one such story. It is a tale of reaching for your dreams, and never stopping, even when failure seems the most likely outcome. It is also a fascinating insight into the aviation industry in Australia - from its beginnings out of World War II through to the modern era.
Margaret, Victoria: I purchased Barefoot to Boeings and thoroughly enjoyed it. Your book has given me an impetus to write my life history for my family.
Deb, Amazon Reviewer: Excellent story! Keeping writing Karen I want to read more! ★★★★★
Leyu, Queensland: Barefoot to Boeings is a captivating story about Australian history and how one man contributed to making it great. Karen did an amazing job in creating a sense of connection with Brian, and I felt as though I was walking the road of life with him. I laughed and cried throughout this book, and I think it will help people understand the struggles and success that one of our very own Australian men went through in his life. Very well written and an unquestionably powerful book!
ether you are interested in aviation or Australian history this book is a journey down memory lane from life on the farm and the outside dunny to the perceived luxuries of jet aircraft. It is a small glimpse into the life of an airline pilot, which it took a lifetime to play out.
