Flight Not Improbable Octave Chanute and the Worldwide Race Toward Flight

“Octave Chanute? A curious name which will stir memories in some aviation enthusiasts ... . Octave Chanute has been a passion of Simine’s for many years, and this is the electronic version of her meticulously written hardback of the same name, published by Springer. ... The book tells you: Chanute can be credited with inventing the ‘trussed biplane’, that is, the classic strutted and wire-braced form which dominated aviation until the 1930’s- though not gliding, of course.” (Andrew Jarvis, VGC News, Issue 168, Summer, 2023) 

“Chanute’s role as ‘influencer’ is expertly traced by the author. … The writing style is impeccable; there are 43 pages of references, and an index of eight pages. By the end, you will feel you really know this true gentleman of the air.” (Andrew Jarvis, SAILPLANE & GLIDING, Vol. 74 (4), August-September, 2023)

“This book is a must-read for all those interested in the evolution of airplanes. Its protagonist, Octave Chanute, is best known for his scientific and collaborative approach to the engineering problems … and for the support he gave to many aeronautical pioneers, including the Wright Brothers. ...

“This book is an excellent reference work to have in one’s collection and highly recommended by this reviewer. While not only documenting Chanute’s life and contributions to aviation, Mrs. Short has provided extensive references, 42 pages worth, documenting the sources of the story. The work is well written and organized, easy to understand and loaded with images that help explain various concepts and ideas.” (Hayden Hamilton, AAHS FlightLine, Issue 210, 2023) 

“Simine Short observes at the start of her scholarly and highly readable ‘Flight Not Improbable: Octave Chanute and the Worldwide Race Toward Flight’ … it is something of an injustice that Chanute should not be as widely recognised today as he clearly once was.