Before there were drones

Does the idea of a UPS drone delivering a package to your doorstep seem pretty amazing? If so, that is what traditional military leaders toward the end of WWII thought about the idea of a bomber dropping a bomb on a designated taget in Japan. The story of how precision bombing came about (or almost did NOT) is the story told by Malcolm Gladwell in The Bomber Mafia.

Most of us know Gladwell from his ‘pop-art’ books such as The Tipping Point and Outliers. These easy-to-read books highlight new ways of looking at old things and entertaining observations about intuitive truths. Gladwell’s new book, however, is a departure from his norm and an attempt to reflect on history–what could have been, might have been and was.

While not at all liking the notion of war, I admit I remain fascinated by stories from WWII. Perhaps that’s because I was a child who was heavily influenced by the post-war patriotism of the 50’s. Perhaps it’s because I like to win, which is what our country did in 1945!! Regardless, I found this new book by Gladwell captivating. I know my husband would have liked it, my grandson will like it and so will a host of other people, mostly men, probably. So, if you are looking for a Father’s Day gift that isn’t expensive and a book that isn’t very long, look no longer. The Bomber Mafia is perfect.

Bomber Mafia – Wikipedia

The Bomber Mafia were a close-knit group of American military men who believed that long-range heavy bomber aircraft in large numbers were able to win a war. The derogatory term “Bomber Mafia” was used before and after World War II by those in the military who did not share their belief, and who were frustrated by the insistence of the men that the heavy bomber should take a primary position in planning and funding.