Luck of the Draw

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

Luck of the Draw delivers an enthralling narrative delving into the perilous world of the Eighth Air Force during WWII, as showcased in the acclaimed Steven Spielberg and Tom Hanks TV series, Masters of the Air. Set against the war-torn backdrop of occupied Europe, this book chronicles the harrowing experiences of American heavy bomber crews who undertook dangerous missions with unwavering resolve, starting from August 17, 1942. The cost of their valiant efforts was monumental, with thousands of aircraft lost and countless lives forever altered.

At the heart of this true story is Frank Murphy, a distinguished yet humble hero whose courage and survival instincts enabled him to navigate through the profound challenges thrown his way. Amidst the thunderous roar of falling bombs and vicious dogfights, Murphy emerges as a beacon of resilience. Surviving when his B-17 Flying Fortress was shot down, he finds himself ensnared behind enemy lines, enduring the relentless hardships of a German POW camp. This riveting account encapsulates not only the stark realities of war but also the indomitable spirit of those who faced it head-on.

Enhanced by a newly added foreword by Chloe Melas of NBC and Elizabeth Murphy, his daughter, the book brings a personal touch from the perspectives of those who continue to carry the legacy of their esteemed forebear.

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

This book transcends being a mere military history; it is a profound testament to human endurance, digging into how the past’s harrowing experiences shape our present understanding of courage, sacrifice, and survival.