While the Hindenburg, like the Phoenix of myth, did in fact perish in fiery death, it did not rise again from its own ashes reborn. Some would say that this rebirth part is the essential - defining, even - trait of the Phoenix. For this reason alone I cannot recommend this book.

Henning Boetius is the son of Eduard Boetius, the man who was at the wheel of the elevator control when the Hindenburg exploded and crashed in New Jersey in 1937. At the time this book was written his father was the only survivor of the tragedy to still remain alive and so the son Henning is in a unique position to write, "The Phoenix", a novel of historical fiction based on this 1937 tragedy.

The explosion and crash of the Hindenburg mat not be the number one topic on the list of unsolved mysteries, but it remains an event of historical import and of fascination in general, and a topic for those who believe the truth of the explosion that brought down the massive vessel has yet to be explained and shared. This book is not a study of what happened, although the demise of the ship plays a major role. It is as much about the history before and after the event, the lives that were ended and altered, and the war that engulfed much of the world. The book is also about a search for the truth as it applies to the Hindenburg and many of the people involved whether they were scientists, politicians, or just witnesses.

One of the most engaging aspects of the book were the explanations of how these massive ships actually worked, the science behind what were incredibly complex vehicles that were paradoxes of incredible strength and concurrent fragility. The author has one scientist explain the various scientific principles that make these ships work through the scientists that discovered how lighter than air gas behaves, what happens when it is heated, when pressure is applied, and how much any given item actually weighs here on Earth. It was all very well communicated for the lay-person.

Mr. Boetius has written over 20 books, and while this is the first of his I have read, I will certainly seek out additional writing by this man.

This book reminds me of "The Count of Monte Cristo", not because it has anyting to do with the period or theme, but because of the richness of plot and character. The plot has the driving force to get the book somewhere, and the characters have more than enough power to make the trip enjoyable. There is much of interest about airships here, and also complex human relationships, all set in a time of turmoil. Very well written and produced. Top grade stuff!