Admiral Eddie: The Story of America's Greatest Naval Aviator is the fascinating true story of Medal of Honor winner and 18th naval aviator in U.S. history, Vice-Admiral Edward Orrick McDonnell, (USNA class of 1912). In addition, Eddie McDonnell was an investment banker involved with the founding of Pan American, Hertrz and Pepsi Cola.
An avid outdoorsman who fished with Hemingway and Elizabeth II and Phillip of England and hunted with William Holden, Eddie was instrumental in helping to set aside thousands of acres as game preserves all over the world.
Eddie McDonnell was also connect through both marriage and business to the Hearst, Rockefeller and Kendall families. He was also close friends with Juan Trippe, Richard Byrd and most of the early aviation pioneers.
Admiral Eddie offers everyone an opportunity to better understand what American exceptionalism is all about. It is a wonderful glimpse into history and a refreshing look at a truly amazing member of the greatest generation.
Assessment:
Plot/Idea: Barry delivers a resounding tale of aircraft's Golden Age, speaking through the eyes of his grandfather, Vice Admiral Eddie McDonnell of the United States Navy, from generational stories passed down through his family.
Prose: The prose is powerful and concise, bolstering the memoir’s theme and driving the intriguing story behind Barry’s famous grandfather.
Originality: Barry illuminates history through the inclusion of authentic text excerpts, compelling photographs, and fact-based stories related to his grandfather’s career.
Character/Execution: Admiral Eddie is as entertaining as it is factual, with strong credibility and a storyteller’s nuance when it comes to recounting history.
Date Submitted: January 18, 2023
