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Luck of the Draw

My Story of the Air War in Europe
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( 680 ratings, 98 reviews)
Book Hero Magic crafted this summary to help describe this book. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! Summary
In Luck of the Draw by Frank Murphy, readers journey through the harrowing experiences of the author during World War II. As a member of the "Mighty Eighth Air Force," Murphy details his life as a prisoner of war after being shot down over Nazi-occupied Europe. This biography provides an intimate look at his resilience and perseverance through adversity, capturing both the chaos of war and the enduring spirit of those determined to survive.
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Format: Paperback / softback
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Book Hero Magic created this recommendation. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! IS THIS YOUR NEXT READ?

You might enjoy this book if you're interested in heartwarming and personal stories, as it provides a touching insight into the author's journey and life lessons. It appeals to readers who appreciate authentic memoirs that offer wisdom and inspiration drawn from real-life experiences.

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Book Hero Magic formatted this description to make it easier to read. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! Description

THE INSTANT NEW YORK TIMES BESTSELLER

"In the pursuit of authenticity, of accurate history and undeniable courage, no words matter more than, 'I was there.' Read Luck of the Draw and the life of Frank Murphy and ponder this: how did those boys do such things?" --Tom Hanks

The epic true story of an American hero who flew during WWII, as featured in the Steven Spielberg and Tom Hanks TV Series, Masters of the Air.

Beginning on August 17, 1942, American heavy bomber crews of the Eighth Air Force took off for combat in the hostile skies over occupied Europe. The final price was staggering. 4,300 B-17s and B-24s failed to return; nearly 21,000 men were taken prisoner or interned in a neutral country, and a further 17,650 made the ultimate sacrifice.

Luck of the Draw is more than a war story. It's the incredible, inspiring story of Frank Murphy, one of the few survivors from the 100th Bombardment Group, who cheated death for months in a German POW camp after being shot out of his B-17 Flying Fortress.

Now with a new foreword written by his granddaughter Chloe Melas, of NBC, and daughter Elizabeth Murphy.

"A gripping, inspirational account of incredible bravery, resilience, and sheer will to survive. A truly extraordinary story!" --General David Petraeus, U.S. Army (Ret.)

Book Hero Magic summarised reviews for this book. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! HOW HAS THIS BEEN REVIEWED?

Luck of the Draw by Frank Murphy is praised for its authentic and harrowing depiction of World War II air battles and prisoner of war experiences. Reviewers commend Murphy's firsthand account, describing it as both riveting and poignant, capturing the fortitude of the greatest generation. It's noted for its detailed history of military aviation and its heartfelt homage to comrades, positioning it as a classic of WWII literature.

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Book Details

INFORMATION

ISBN: 9781250866899

Publisher: St. Martin's Griffin

Format: Paperback / softback

Date Published: 28 February 2023

Imprint: St. Martin's Griffin

Illustration: Illustrations

Contributors:

  • Contributions by Chloe Melas
  • Contributions by Elizabeth Murphy

Audience: General / adult

DIMENSIONS

Spine width: 36.0mm

Width: 135.0mm

Height: 203.0mm

Weight: 408g

Pages: 480

About the Author

FRANK MURPHY survived months in a German POW camp after being shot out of his B-17 Flying Fortress. His bravery earned him the Prisoner of War Medal, Purple Heart, and Air Medal. The incredible stories of Murphy and his 8th Air Force's 100th Bomb Group are featured in the Steven Spielberg and Tom Hanks TV Series, Masters of the Air.

CHLOE MELAS is an entertainment reporter for NBC, covering breaking celebrity news, industry analyses and in-depth investigations. She currently resides in New York with her husband and two sons.

ELIZABETH MURPHY holds a Masters of English Literature from Northern Arizona University and is the author of numerous children's books. She currently resides in Atlanta, Georgia, where she was born and raised.

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    Beginning on August 17, 1942, American heavy bomber crews of the Eighth Air Force took off for combat in the hostile skies over occupied Europe. The final price was staggering. 4,300 B-17s and B-24s failed to return; nearly 28,000 men were taken prisoner or interned in a neutral country, and a further 26,000 made the ultimate sacrifice. Luck of the...
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