 |
Don was born in 1901 and grew up in Pennsylvania. His father owned and operated a men's clothing store, but Don preferred to spend his time on the family farm. When America entered World War I, Don felt compelled to join the army. However, he needed his father's permission as he was still a minor. His father finally agreed to sign a consent form after his son finished high school. Don graduated early, joined the army, and left for Europe. In training, he displayed the engine repair skills he learned in his hometown and soon became an airplane mechanic. It wasn't long before he lied about his age and became a pilot. After the war, he went into the air parcel delivery business. This would expand over the years to include passenger planes. During World War II, Don and his new bride moved to California, where he assisted in training fighter pilots. After the war, they returned to the East Coast as they were both missing their families.
Doutrich's book reads like a combination of biography and memoir. It spans American history from 1901 until just before the turn of the century. The protagonist shows a strong commitment to his family, his country, and hard work. Throughout the narrative, Doutrich talks about all the major wars America was in during the period, the plight of veterans, the depression, Japanese internment camps, the early days of the airline industry, and the mob. Through the protagonist's adventures, the reader is given a tour of American history through the century, although character development takes second place in favor of a wealth of historical information. However, those who love the historical part of historical fiction should find this to be an engaging read.