ESCAPING THE FLAMES: Chronicles of a Jet Crash Survivor

Not many people experience a plane crash and live to tell the tale. But Todd Overgard did. Heading home for the holidays in 1972, Todd was aboard North Central Airlines Flight 575 when it collided with Delta Air Lines Flight 954 on a runway at O'Hare International Airport in Chicago, killing 10 and injuring 17.What is it to survive something so horrific like a plane crash? In a moment completely out of your control, life is forever changed. Although he escaped, Todd was understandably wary of flying again. Turns out, it was only one of the dangerous events of his past life. In Escaping the Flames, Todd explores these events and their impact on his life as a way to cope, and as a way to heal. In the moments after tragedy, survival is celebrated. But upon closer inspection, survival can be tough going for the survivor. Todd's remarkable story is to be shared and appreciated for the realization that not all ashes give rise to a phoenix.

I bought this book because I also was in a plane crash and wanted to see how another survivor could put it into words. In addition to describing the crash event the author also described many other events in his life that were extraordinary or simply important to him. I not only identified with the crash but enjoyed reading about how his life evolved around that one event and beyond. I enjoy real life stories and this one did not disappoint me. At times I felt I was with him on the plane.

This book is one of the most intricately researched projects I have ever read. In addition to telling about his own experience, Overgard shares the stories of other survivors of this historic crash, provides in-depth understanding of the times and the scenarios which made this tragic event possible (and the changes to Aviation law as a result) and examines every authoritative report on the subject from the time. He does a great job comparing details he has learned in the years since with his own memories.A very informative read.

Not only did he survive a horrific plane crash, but the author also became a tennis professional and so much more. In short, he overcame his obstacles.The author’s survivor spirit shines on every page of this book. I love reading memoirs and this one didn’t disappoint.If you want to read about the survivor spirit, here it is. This book was a page turner. I’ve already recommended it to several people and will continue to do so!I myself experienced a near plane crash, although nothing as devastating as the author’s trauma, but I could relate to his story and having to carry on with that experience as heavy lifelong baggage.My thanks to the author for having the courage to write this book.

Having gone through high school with Todd, reading his book brought back many memories he wrote about prior to writing his escape from this horrible flight event. I highly recommend this book to anyone who wants to read and feel the tragic event Todd endured. Really a very well-written book and I am so very happy my high school friend made it through this to go on to raise a wonderful family. Ron Richter

Interesting story I was hooked from cover to cover!!