The Lucky One, a memoir, From Outlaw Biker to Airline Pilot and Beyond - by Dale Arenson (Paperback)

About the Book

Join the author for more exciting stories as he endeavors to succeed in the world of aviation, in the follow up book to Better Lucky Than Good.

Book Synopsis

Still fresh on his path to reinventing himself as a pilot and inspired by his encounters with world-famous airshow pilots, the former outlaw biker Dale Arenson becomes obsessed with flying. His commitment to a bright future in aviation translates into extensive hours of study and flight training. But it isn't all blue skies and tailwinds...

In his quest to become the finest pilot possible, Dale must confront not only adverse weather or unforeseen aircraft malfunctions but also his own old beliefs and self-imposed limitations. But as he pushes through, driven by his newfound passion, he finds expansion, fulfillment, and joy. Becoming a flight instructor in his classroom in the sky reveals to him his gift and love for teaching. His job as a pilot flying on forest fires for the California Department of Forestry teaches him how to be strategic in his thinking and endeavors. By setting small goals, he works his way up from flying small airplanes, then the twin-engine Cessna O-2, to being at the helm of the sleek Learjet and interviewing for a job as a commercial airline pilot with American Airlines.

The Lucky One is the second memoir in the From Outlaw Biker to Airline Pilot And Beyond series and picks up right where the first book left off. The storyline will captivate your imagination with its unexpected twists and turns, keeping you at the edge of your seat. Arenson's unique writing style, vivid and entertaining, will you take you right next to him in the cockpit and make you turn the pages, wishing this airborne adventure would never end.

Review Quotes

5.0 out of 5 stars

On your next flight, when you see an elegantly uniformed airline captain entering the cockpit to take command of the aircraft and passengers, Dale's portrait of all the sacrifices, low pay, lost friends, and perseverance required to reach that position will give you a new appreciation of him and his skills. Sit in the right seat and fly along with Dale as he illustrates a journey of what it takes to turn one's life around, reach literally for the skies, and not be limited by other's low expectations. Yes, it is about aircraft and flying, but more importantly it is about succeeding in the game of life.

Merle Lynch

President Merle Lynch Financial Services

Sus

5.0 out of 5 stars

Fantastic memoir

I enjoy reading pilot memoirs and this one ranks up there with the best. Its the 2nd book of author's memoirs. He writes in a very down to earth humble style which I appreciate. Yet he's lived an incredible and inspirational life.

Brian Bahnsen

5.0 out of 5 stars

Did Not Disappoint

Similar to Dale's "Better Lucky Than Good", this book had me captivated from the first page. A fan of air travel and Harley's, his stories are like sitting with your favorite uncle and hanging on his every word. The style of writing is inviting and you never feel like the book slows to a pace that has you wanting to set it down. As long as Dale continues to offer these stories to his readers, I will continue to buy them as fast as they're released. I am a huge fan and can't wait for #3! Another must read.

Samantha Hess

5.0 out of 5 stars

This book is great reading from cover to cover.

Dale Arenson's writing never disappoints! THE LUCKY ONE holds the reader's interest from cover to cover. It's best having read his other books, but THE LUCKY ONE can certainly stand alone. Of special interest are the descriptions of fire fighting. As always, friendships and aviation play essential roles.

THE LUCKY ONE is written by and about a goal oriented person who also lives fully in the moment, whatever and wherever he finds it to be.

Open Mind

5.0 out of 5 stars

If you like inspiring stories....

Dale writes a lot like Earnest Gann. His attention to the details of flying and catching the human element of aviation makes his books (and this book) really hard to stop reading. A very enjoyable book for flyers and non flyers alike. It's inspiring for people to follow their dreams and that's what this book is about!

Gregory Woodbury

5.0 out of 5 stars

Great Read!

I just finished Dales fourth book, The Lucky One. It's another Great read just like his first 3 books and I'm anxiously awaiting for book # 5. Kudos Dale!

Jennifer Ross

5.0 out of 5 stars

Another great read from Dale.

More great stories from a man who has lived more than most people can even dare to imagine. Dale, thank you for sharing these stories and showing us that the only difference between ordinary and extraordinary is determination and a willingness to believe in yourself and take that leap of faith

Melissa Bost

5.0 out of 5 stars

Compelling read

I haven't burned through a book this fast since I was given "Hangmen" by my husband to read. I couldn't put it down! I spent every free moment I had (and a few I probably didn't) devouring this book!"