Review
Paul Hoffman artfully documents the life and aeronautic contributions of Brazilian-born pilot and aeronautic engineer Alberto Santos-Dumont. Spanning the turn of the century and opening in Paris 1903, “Wings of Madness” retraces Alberto’s history to describe his formative years on the family’s coffee plantation, the development of his fascination with hot air balloons and flight, and how his growing passion spurred his move to Paris.
Alberto’s success building and piloting flying machines and his charismatic flare gained him notoriety and entry into the highest social circles in Paris, where he enjoyed spectacular parties. World War I was soon to change the festive mood however and precipitated Alberto’s decline into madness.

~ Jocelyn Hubbell
Coordinator, Cornerstones of Science
3/21/2006