West with the Night discussion

This is among my most often recommended books. I read a biography about Beryl Markham, and there is controversy over whether her husband actually wrote the book. No matter who wrote it, it was eloquently done, and she was a very remarkable person.

Im from Toronto. Need ot borrow the book for school for a week. Please reply.

I also heard that rumor, Batwoman, but I figure since we don't know, I like to believe that she wrote it. It's some of the most beautiful language I've ever read. Sometimes I'll just take it down from the shelf and read a favorite passage. It refreshes my mind, much like a walk in a beautiful natural place does. I too am always recommending it to people!

Yes, I was very disappointed after the biography by Errol Trzebinski. I had heard previously about the writing with her husband. And I thought certain parts could only have been written by a pilot.

Apparently not. The book indicated that I had it reversed.

I think I may have given my book away after that. I was so disappointed. Ah, well! such is humanity.

But what a life!

So, despite the disappointment inspired by The Lives of Beryl Markham I would still highly recommend this biography.

But read West With the Night first.

I'm willing to take it at face value that she indeed wrote the book herself. I see no need to quibble about it. Be generous. Its a wonderful friggin' work.

I missed these other comments. I have read and reread the book. I agree that whoever wrote it may be irrelevant. It is eloquently written, and I will give them both credit. I usually tell the story including her husband as the possible or probable writer.

I have loved this book for over 20 years. My Mother gave it to me, I have read it over and over. Beryl's childhood was beautiful, her accomplishments in life are sublime.

One of my all time favorite books!

I have spent a lot of time flying in Africa and across several oceans. Hemingway said that Markham had written a truly remarkable book, and I do not doubt its authenticity. Now, we take trans-Atlantic crossings as a matter of course, but for her to do it, particularly against the prevailing westerlies that always blow across the north Atlantic, in a single engine aircraft, was the pinnacle of skill and courage. It is a truly beautiful book. When I was based in Nairobi many years ago, I saw her interviewed on the local TV station. Don't walk into the bar at the East African Flying Club at Wilson Field in Nairobi and tell everyone you think the book is fraudulent. You will not be warmly received. It could have only been written by a very experienced pilot. The portion about her growing up in British East Africa also rings with authenticity. I love that book.