Up in the Sky


 Book Review

Title: Up In The sky
Author: Nitin Sathe
Genre: Non Fiction

I had interviewed Air Commodore Nitin Sathe sometime in 2014.  It was on his coffee table book which chronicles his rescue operations at Car Nicobar, post the Tsunami in 2004. Interviewing someone from the armed forces is always an intriguing experience, especially when you listen to them talk about their journey. 

I was compelled to pick this book as I expected another interesting read. It turned out to be just as I had anticipated-an engaging one that I could read in one sitting. 

Up in the Sky is a collection of anecdotes from his aviation life as a a veteran helicopter pilot. From flying in torrid conditions, adventures in Africa, helping strangers, cultivating unexpected friendships on trains, searching for lost mountaineers, flying in Siachen Glacier and his train journey, he also talks about his dear friend, late MP Anil Sharma and his relief work at Car Nicobar island. He imbibes learnings from his own experiences and imparts it to the readers in a simple manner. 

His writing his beautiful, evocative and emotional, interspersed with doses of humor. Many instances resonate and strike a chord with readers, melting the cockles of your heart.  He touches upon themes of friendship and kindness. At the same time, he reiterates the necessity for discipline in life. The book is absorbing and will soak readers into these stories spread across the skies and several landscapes. Up in the Sky is a memorable and a joyful ride! 

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