Review of SULLY
by Johny McFliggen, PhD Literature & Business, Oxford
In the pantheon of aviation tales, "SULLY" by Chesley B. Sullenberger III with Jeffrey Zaslow is a shimmering beacon of real-life heroism, wrapped in a memoir that tries valiantly to balance introspection and high-stakes drama. Much like Tom Hanks' portrayal in the film adaptation, the book itself is a study in calm under pressure, albeit with a touch more of the mundane than one might expect from a narrative born from such a spectacular event.
The book dives headfirst into Sullenberger's life, detailing his formative years with the meticulousness of a biopic scripted by Aaron Sorkin. Sullenberger doesn’t just recount the extraordinary day he became a national hero but meticulously maps out the journey that crafted his unflappable demeanor. If one were to consider "SULLY" as a cinematic experience, the Hudson River landing would be the climactic crescendo, but the preceding acts are no less pivotal, laden with insights into leadership and integrity.
While some critics lament the extensive focus on Sullenberger's life before the infamous flight, I find this narrative choice rather enlightening. It’s reminiscent of "The Wright Brothers" by David McCullough, where the story isn’t just about the iconic flight but also about the perseverance and innovation that led to that moment. For those seeking an adrenaline rush akin to a Michael Bay film, this might feel like a slow burn. But for connoisseurs of character exploration, it’s akin to savoring fine wine.
The book’s strength lies in its understated prose, courtesy of Jeffrey Zaslow’s skillful penmanship. Zaslow manages to capture Sullenberger's humility and steadfastness without veering into saccharine territory. It's reminiscent of William Langewiesche's "Fly by Wire," which also examines Flight 1549 but with a more technical lens. In contrast, "SULLY" serves as both an autobiography and a treatise on crisis management—an exploration of how one man’s life experiences culminated in those pivotal three minutes on January 15, 2009.
"SULLY" might not have swept up literary accolades like a Hemingway novel, but its impact is undeniable. It offers a masterclass in leadership and decision-making, wrapped in the guise of an aviation memoir. The book stands as a testament to the notion that preparation meets opportunity in moments that define us. For anyone who ever wondered what it takes to steer through chaos with grace, this book is your philosophical north star.
In the end, "SULLY" isn’t merely about one dramatic event; it’s about the lifelong journey that led there. It’s about how preparation, integrity, and quiet resilience can transform an ordinary individual into an extraordinary figure. Much like its author, "SULLY" may not shout its virtues from the rooftops, but it quietly demands attention for the lessons it imparts—a narrative where the man and his memoir become inseparable from their message.
Purchase Link: SULLY on Amazon
