The sensation of flying is sublime. We dream about it and the arts celebrate it. And, while most of us have had the privilege to climb aboard an airplane and soar above our planet, few have consumed the miles or surveyed our planet in this unusual manner. A diplomatic courier whose job required him to fly countless times over almost very contintent, James Burrill Angell muses with intelligence, humor and aplomb on the human condition and on the condition of our planet. From crossing the Mekong, to coasting above the lungs of the planet--the Amazon basin--one rides along with Mr. Angell in a first class seat with an unforgettable view, and a unique perspective on life in the new millennium.