mode. Newly launched by Vanguard Books, it is a most fascinating study of not only Haider's interesting and adventurous life but also
of the Pakistan Air Force itself. Sajad Haider has always been outspoken with a "no-holds barred" approach to life and his life story reflects this most vividly, with his near-death encounters while
flying as well as his turbulent times fighting against an unjust court martial which eventually exonerated him. Interesting anecdotes abound in the book reflecting different facets of Haider's life
in the PAF – including his run-in with the Shah of Iran in Washington, his unfulfilled true love and other amusing flirtatious encounters.

However, the book is an important "must read" for all Pakistanis, because it opens up the evolution of the institution of the Pakistan Air Force andthe brave and audacious officers who laid the
strong foundations. Haider shows the commitment of the early officer cadre, which flew their machines without high-tech back-up systems in a seemingly cavalier fashion. It is more than just the story
of the institution. Haider provides the human element to the story of the Pakistan Air Force. In fact, by describing the lifestyle of the PAF reflected in its socialising patterns in the Officers'
Mess, Haider draws a picture of the elite lifestyle of Pakistan during the pre-Zia days and the social tolerance that was taken for granted. He also paints a nostalgic picture of days when officers
rode motor bikes or old cars, travelled in second-class railway compartments and barely had enough money for fuelling the borrowed car of a friend. That these