1964 Throw Out Two Hands - Anthony Smith (Companion Book Club)

"Throw Out Two Hands" is actually a memoir by Anthony Smith, a British adventurer, and writer, which recounts his extraordinary journey of hot air ballooning across Africa. Published in 1969, the book details Smith's experiences as he embarks on this daring expedition, soaring over the vast and diverse landscapes of Africa.

The book is not only about the adventure and technical challenges of ballooning but also offers a rich narrative on the beauty and dangers of the African wilderness. Smith, a former science correspondent for the BBC, brings a unique perspective to his writing, blending his scientific background with a passion for exploration. The title "Throw Out Two Hands" refers to the act of holding onto life with both hands, a metaphor for the perseverance and courage required in such an endeavor.

Smith's journey was filled with moments of awe as well as peril, and the book captures the essence of what it means to undertake such a bold and adventurous pursuit.