Without the benefit of professors, a book like Smith's isrequired to provide the intuitive capacity which then makes the textbooks useful. The Illustrated Guide to Aerodynamics was not prepared as a university textbook, hence its semi-quantitative, largely practical, explanation of aerodynamics principles, but students will still find it valuable in reducing the effort needed when they turn to their textbooks. The important concepts are all covered and explained well, along with aerodynamics terms and design considerations. Use this book to help you understand, the others to help your grade point average. Smith's book would also be understandable to those who are not students, but do want to know about the physical principles involved in aircraft flight. Many diagrams and graphs explain the subject matter in pictures. A knowledge of basic mechanics and basic fluid mechanics is required, however.

My only complaint is the author's use of English units on an SI continent. English units are somewhat forgiveable however, since aerodynamics and fluid mechanics are areas which continue to resist complete conversion to SI. In any case, the formulae in the book are meant mainly to illustrate cause and effect relationships. Though the book was for the topic of flight, some basics in materials and structures would have been welcome too.

Thank you, "Skip", for writing a comprehensive book on aerodynamics which is enjoyable and comprehensible. You have taught us to read aerodynamics.