[.ca] So, You Want to Be a Pilot, Eh? a Guidebook for Canadian ... (ISBN 097813091X)

Learn the details:
Most people who think about becoming a pilot really don't know much about the subject. It is typical for people to assume that you get your license and begin flying Boeing and Airbus products right away. In fact, it is quite the opposite. There are years and years of training and experience required to fly those large commercial jets. Jamie Ball does an excellent job in going through the process of one day flying those large aircraft. He explains both the pros and cons of becoming a pilot, but also how to best go about doing it. So, You Want to Be a Pilot, Eh? is an excellent book. I found that it started a bit dry however quickly picked up once some of the necessary ground work had been laid. Another really cool part in the book is a section at the end of each chapter called "hanger talk." This part includes quotes and very short stories relating to the chapter from already successful airline pilots. If you're looking to find out just how to fly one of those big birds in the sky or simply looking for a good read, this book is for you.

I wish I had this book when I got started.:
I have read this book and can say without hesitation it is a must read for anyone that is thinking about becoming a career pilot. I also believe that this book would be beneficial for anyone who is currently training to be a pilot. I went through a very similar career progression as James with the exception that I now work for Air Canada and can honestly sat that I wish I had had this book to read 10 years ago. This book is full of very useful and realistic information on becoming a pilot, in regards to medicals, radio licences, initial exams etc. As well as what you can expect for the first few years of your career in regards to where you might have to go and what your options are. This book should be required reading for all new pilots. It's almost as important as reading "From the Ground Up".

AMAZING.MUST READ:
To all prospective readers, and James Ball: I enjoyed reading this book so much that when I picked it up, I skipped meals, and didn't put it down until it was read cover to cover. The information provided is well researched and Ball has done an excellent job delivering it in a concise non bias manner. I would recommend this book to all aspiring pilots and/or people already in the industry who want to be more knowledgeable of the ins and outs of Canadian aviation and training in the todays world. It's very important that you know what you're getting your self into, and this book portrays all aspects and information appropriately for you to make an informed decision. Being a pilot is cool, but it's not for everyone, this book will assist you in that choice. I will reference this book for years to come. Thank you, Mr. Ball and the people involved with the book, for providing me with knowledge I would have otherwise had a difficult time acquiring. You are truly an inspiration and great contributor to Canadian Aviation. Good luck to Mr. Ball, and all Canadian pilots, on your future endeavors. I look forward to seeing you in the sky. Cheers, MN

All you need to know about flying commercially in Canada!:
As an aspiring pilot starting to make my way into aviation I found in "So You Want To Be A Pilot, Eh?" a great amount of information that I wasn't able to seek elsewhere. This guide is a MUST for anybody getting into aviation. What I liked the most about the book is that James Ball tells from A to Z what to do and what it takes to become a successful pilot giving both pros and honest cons about every subject and possible path into flying commercially in Canada. Hes giving a clear view of today's aviation business offering precious tips on how to avoid the many obstacles and pitfalls that can delay progress and sometimes, unfortunately, ruin careers. I found the chapter division really useful, the book can be read all the way through or used as a reference for specific problems or questions. This guide will be an invaluable companion through my career for the next few years to come! Fly safe!