The Wrong Stuff

The Adventures and Misadventures of an 8th Air Force Aviator

By: Truman Smith

Narrated by: James Killavey

Between April and July 1944, Truman Smith flew 35 bombing missions over France and Germany. He was only 20 years old. Although barely adults, Smith and his peers worried about cramming a lifetime's worth of experience into every free night, each knowing he probably would not survive the next bombing mission. Written with blunt honesty, wry humor, and insight, The Wrong Stuff is Smith's gripping memoir of that time. In a new preface, the author comments with equal honesty and humor on the impact this book has had on his life.

©1996 Truman and Margot Smith Trust (P)2014 Redwood Audiobooks

Critic reviews

"...the book proves that the nation's greatest resources are its young people, ready and willing to serve their country." ( St. Joseph (MO.) News-Press)

"If you thought gallantry and valor were the only stuff war is made of, think again. He makes one statement which is not understood by anyone who has not served in combat: 'In order to out-bad the bad guys, you've got to be badder than they are.'" ( Tulsa World)

Revelation

What did you love best about The Wrong Stuff?

Getting a first hand view of what actually happened.

What was one of the most memorable moments of The Wrong Stuff?

Their having to make a forced landing..and surviving.

What about James Killavey’s performance did you like?

He did an excellent job. Will be looking for more by him.

Any additional comments?

Never realized the extremely high morality rate and that, until late in the war. the missions were flown without fighter escorts! And how young they were..true American heroes.

Enthralling--A Unique WW2 Military Memoir

I've never read a WW2 memoir quite like this, at least by a pilot. Humor, pathos, irreverence, deep introspection--it's all here and often in the same paragraph, and sometimes almost in the same sentence. Smith includes several details we've often wondered about but other authors neglect, like just how one handles "nature's call" in a B-17 at thirty-thousand feet.

A wonderful book!

What made the experience of listening to The Wrong Stuff the most enjoyable?

This was a wonderful book about the European air war during WW II. It is, in turns, funny, tragic and terrifying. It is written from the perspective of a young twenty years old pilot and others like him. We should always be thankful for their courage and resolve. There will never be another generation like theirs.....God bless them every one.

What other book might you compare The Wrong Stuff to and why?

Unbroken only thing that comes close. Bravery under extreme adversity.

Have you listened to any of James Killavey’s other performances before? How does this one compare?

Yes I have. I thought the reading was quite good, and while the majority of reviewers so far seem to agree with me, there are a few surprisingly nasty comments about him. I don’t know why. ..Haters? Personal taste? Ya got me. In any case, the way to find out if you will like the narration is simple…listen to the sample. The book is great and the reader, in my opinion does it justice. Don't let me or the few disgruntled ones decide for you..Listen to the sample and judge for yourself. That's what it's there for.

Was this a book you wanted to listen to all in one sitting?

No, too long. Took me a few days.

Any additional comments?

I've been listening to audiobooks for many years. This is one of the best.

Excellent

What made the experience of listening to The Wrong Stuff the most enjoyable?

Well read and well written. Powerful first person account.

What does James Killavey bring to the story that you wouldn’t experience if you just read the book?

Sounded like the author talking to me. Well done.

Did you have an extreme reaction to this book? Did it make you laugh or cry?

Both in various places.

Sorry this book didnt make the cut for me.

Frankly I couldn't get into the book at all. I actually stopped 5 chapters in.
the Narrator was more like a sports announcer.
I wouldnt recommend this book unless maybe your a war and or plane buff.