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Where We Land: A Pilot's Reflections at Altitude
Embark on a journey with Donald Osborn, a natural-born storyteller whose life unfolds like an exhilarating adventure across the globe.
Hailing from humble beginnings in western Nebraska, Osborn navigates the diverse landscapes of life, from small-town roots to the vast expanses of the world, collecting subjects and stories along the way. His career takes off from entry-level flight instructing to navigating the turbulent currents of the commercial airline industry.
Yet, Osborn's story is far from conventional. He's not just a pilot; he's a real-life character, exploring outdated safety protocols in the airlines, encounters with A-list celebrities and U.S. Presidents, and occasionally transporting human organs.
Balancing his time in the sky, Osborn engages in entrepreneurial ventures, from flipping houses to tree trimming, all while lamenting the downfalls of a bumpy career."Where We Land" is not just a memoir; it's a vivid journey woven with hard knocks, fortunate breaks, and a fair share of questionable decisions. Osborn's candid storytelling invites readers into a world where resilience, humor, and unyielding spirit prevails.
Hailing from humble beginnings in western Nebraska, Osborn navigates the diverse landscapes of life, from small-town roots to the vast expanses of the world, collecting subjects and stories along the way. His career takes off from entry-level flight instructing to navigating the turbulent currents of the commercial airline industry.
Yet, Osborn's story is far from conventional. He's not just a pilot; he's a real-life character, exploring outdated safety protocols in the airlines, encounters with A-list celebrities and U.S. Presidents, and occasionally transporting human organs.
Balancing his time in the sky, Osborn engages in entrepreneurial ventures, from flipping houses to tree trimming, all while lamenting the downfalls of a bumpy career."Where We Land" is not just a memoir; it's a vivid journey woven with hard knocks, fortunate breaks, and a fair share of questionable decisions. Osborn's candid storytelling invites readers into a world where resilience, humor, and unyielding spirit prevails.
210 pages, Paperback
Published May 1, 2024
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Displaying 1 - 16 of 16 reviews
October 22, 2025
From the farmland of western Nebraska to the cabin of a commercial airliner, Osborn takes readers on a gripping journey in Where We Land. He blends candid personal narrative with vivid snapshots from his flying career—covering early flight lessons, unexpected turns in life, and the high-stakes world of aviation. His storytelling shines through in its honesty, humor, and grounded voice. What might seem like a glitzy “pilot memoir” becomes instead an authentic exploration of ambition, resilience, and what it means to find one’s place when you’re always in transit. For anyone curious about what goes on behind the cockpit door—or how dreams take flight and land—this book delivers both depth and entertainment.
June 9, 2024
Many people think the life of an airline pilot to be nothing but amazing travel adventures, exotic locales, and rubbing shoulders with famous passengers. Donald Osborn has seen some of that, but he’s also seen the hardships that go along with the job. There are long periods away from his family, obnoxious passengers, and the ever-present danger of layoffs from failed airlines. “Where We Land: A Pilot’s Reflections at Altitude” by Donald Osborn is a journey of humor, wit, and insight that shows just what it takes to chase the dream of the pilot.
I’ll admit that I’m one of those average people who looks at airline pilots as being up there with surgeons. They go through tough training to fly those metal machines and have the lives of hundreds of people in their hands. There’s no room for mistakes. It’s a tough job that, I always thought, was glamorous and paid extremely well.
Osborn’s autobiography splashed water on those ideas. Not that being a pilot doesn’t have perks. But it is a long road to get there. Osborn takes the reader back to his humble beginnings in Nebraska and his early dreams of reaching the sky. While his first taste of flying is unconventional, it also cements his determination to escape his unhappy life.
This is a well-written book that weaves its way back and forth between Osborn’s personal and professional lives. He and his co-author Anna Henkens Schmidt do a wonderful job of keeping the narrative conversational and never delving too deeply into the technical aspects of flying. The sections that cover the work inside the cockpit are written simply and often with humor.
I felt that’s what set this book apart from other autobiographies I’ve read. Osborn has a great sense of humor and can find something to laugh at – or make fun of – in almost any situation.
The book also defied some of my expectations, but in a good way. I was expecting a lot of references to celebrities and other famous people, but Osborn only devoted one fairly short chapter to this topic. And even then, he writes honestly and candidly about the people he had the opportunity to meet.
“Where We Land” by David Osborn is more than just an autobiography. It’s also more than a look at the life of a pilot. There are insights into human behavior, the importance of preparation for any event, and other life tips that come from years of experience. This is a wonderful and entertaining read and I recommend it to anyone who has wondered about the people on the other side of the cockpit door.
I’ll admit that I’m one of those average people who looks at airline pilots as being up there with surgeons. They go through tough training to fly those metal machines and have the lives of hundreds of people in their hands. There’s no room for mistakes. It’s a tough job that, I always thought, was glamorous and paid extremely well.
Osborn’s autobiography splashed water on those ideas. Not that being a pilot doesn’t have perks. But it is a long road to get there. Osborn takes the reader back to his humble beginnings in Nebraska and his early dreams of reaching the sky. While his first taste of flying is unconventional, it also cements his determination to escape his unhappy life.
This is a well-written book that weaves its way back and forth between Osborn’s personal and professional lives. He and his co-author Anna Henkens Schmidt do a wonderful job of keeping the narrative conversational and never delving too deeply into the technical aspects of flying. The sections that cover the work inside the cockpit are written simply and often with humor.
I felt that’s what set this book apart from other autobiographies I’ve read. Osborn has a great sense of humor and can find something to laugh at – or make fun of – in almost any situation.
The book also defied some of my expectations, but in a good way. I was expecting a lot of references to celebrities and other famous people, but Osborn only devoted one fairly short chapter to this topic. And even then, he writes honestly and candidly about the people he had the opportunity to meet.
“Where We Land” by David Osborn is more than just an autobiography. It’s also more than a look at the life of a pilot. There are insights into human behavior, the importance of preparation for any event, and other life tips that come from years of experience. This is a wonderful and entertaining read and I recommend it to anyone who has wondered about the people on the other side of the cockpit door.
September 6, 2025
Very interesting read. This wonderful duo of siblings brings together this intriguing, and at some moments hilarious, novel. You dive into the world of aviation as you see inside a pilot's mind and what he has gone through in his years of flying many different types of planes. It really is interesting everything that goes on behind the cockpit door.
March 24, 2026
True definition of grit in this memoir. It opened my eyes to the journey of a pilot from young adolescents to adulthood. This book presents facts about planes, stories about flight adventures and mishaps, life in between flying, and dashes of humor throughout. I especially liked chapter 14, From Coffee Pots to Cockpits: SOP for Every Occasion. If that manual is ever printed I will be reading it.
June 14, 2024
This book made me laugh out loud several times. Great characters and I learned a lot about
the aviation world.
the aviation world.
December 14, 2024
A masterful exploration of the skies, Donald Osborn's "Where We Land: A Pilot's Reflections at Altitude," co-authored with Anna Henkens Schmidt, weaves together captivating narratives of flight with profound reflections on life itself. As a reader, you embark on an exhilarating journey through the clouds, guided by Osborn's expert hand and imbued with the wisdom that can only come from a seasoned aviator.
From the very first page, Osborn's passion for flying is palpable. He effortlessly translates the thrill of takeoff, the serenity of cruising altitude, and the adrenaline of landing into vivid prose that sweeps you off your feet. Each chapter feels like a personal conversation with a mentor, as Osborn shares his wealth of experience with humility and warmth.
What sets "Where We Land" apart is its ability to transcend the technicalities of aviation and delve into the deeper meanings behind the act of flying. Through Osborn's reflections, we come to understand that flying is not merely a skill or a profession but a way of life. It’s a metaphor for the human experience itself. As he navigates the complexities of the cockpit, he also navigates the complexities of the human soul, offering insights that are as profound as they are enlightening.
One of the book's greatest strengths lies in its accessibility. Whether you're a seasoned pilot or someone who has never set foot on a plane, Osborn's storytelling prowess ensures that you feel right at home in the cockpit. He strikes the perfect balance between technical detail and narrative flow, making even the most intricate concepts easily understandable. By the end of the book, you'll find yourself not only knowledgeable about aviation but deeply inspired by the beauty of flight.
But perhaps the true heart of "Where We Land" lies in its exploration of human connection. Through anecdotes of encounters with passengers, fellow pilots, and air traffic controllers, Osborn reminds us that flying is, at its core, a shared experience. It's a reminder that, no matter how high we soar or how far we travel, we are all bound together by our common humanity. In an age where divisions seem to grow deeper by the day, Osborn's message of unity and empathy is both timely and necessary.
Equally compelling are the sections of the book where Osborn reflects on the fragility of life and the importance of embracing every moment with gratitude. As he grapples with the inherent risks of aviation, he imparts invaluable lessons about resilience, courage, and the power of perspective. In a world where uncertainty lurks around every corner, his words serve as a beacon of hope, guiding us through the storm with grace and resilience.
Schmidt's contributions to the book are also worthy of praise. Her keen editorial eye and empathetic touch complement Osborn's narrative perfectly, ensuring that every word resonates with clarity and authenticity. Together, they have crafted a work that is both enlightening and deeply moving, leaving a lasting impression on anyone fortunate enough to turn its pages.
This book is a soaring triumph. It’s a testament to the beauty of flight and the resilience of the human spirit. Whether you're a aviation enthusiast, a seeker of wisdom, or simply someone looking for a captivating read, this book is sure to leave you inspired, uplifted, and forever changed. Donald Osborn and Anna Henkens Schmidt have given us a gift, and it’s one that reminds us of the limitless possibilities that await when we dare to spread our wings and take flight.
Thank you to the authors for a physical ARC!
From the very first page, Osborn's passion for flying is palpable. He effortlessly translates the thrill of takeoff, the serenity of cruising altitude, and the adrenaline of landing into vivid prose that sweeps you off your feet. Each chapter feels like a personal conversation with a mentor, as Osborn shares his wealth of experience with humility and warmth.
What sets "Where We Land" apart is its ability to transcend the technicalities of aviation and delve into the deeper meanings behind the act of flying. Through Osborn's reflections, we come to understand that flying is not merely a skill or a profession but a way of life. It’s a metaphor for the human experience itself. As he navigates the complexities of the cockpit, he also navigates the complexities of the human soul, offering insights that are as profound as they are enlightening.
One of the book's greatest strengths lies in its accessibility. Whether you're a seasoned pilot or someone who has never set foot on a plane, Osborn's storytelling prowess ensures that you feel right at home in the cockpit. He strikes the perfect balance between technical detail and narrative flow, making even the most intricate concepts easily understandable. By the end of the book, you'll find yourself not only knowledgeable about aviation but deeply inspired by the beauty of flight.
But perhaps the true heart of "Where We Land" lies in its exploration of human connection. Through anecdotes of encounters with passengers, fellow pilots, and air traffic controllers, Osborn reminds us that flying is, at its core, a shared experience. It's a reminder that, no matter how high we soar or how far we travel, we are all bound together by our common humanity. In an age where divisions seem to grow deeper by the day, Osborn's message of unity and empathy is both timely and necessary.
Equally compelling are the sections of the book where Osborn reflects on the fragility of life and the importance of embracing every moment with gratitude. As he grapples with the inherent risks of aviation, he imparts invaluable lessons about resilience, courage, and the power of perspective. In a world where uncertainty lurks around every corner, his words serve as a beacon of hope, guiding us through the storm with grace and resilience.
Schmidt's contributions to the book are also worthy of praise. Her keen editorial eye and empathetic touch complement Osborn's narrative perfectly, ensuring that every word resonates with clarity and authenticity. Together, they have crafted a work that is both enlightening and deeply moving, leaving a lasting impression on anyone fortunate enough to turn its pages.
This book is a soaring triumph. It’s a testament to the beauty of flight and the resilience of the human spirit. Whether you're a aviation enthusiast, a seeker of wisdom, or simply someone looking for a captivating read, this book is sure to leave you inspired, uplifted, and forever changed. Donald Osborn and Anna Henkens Schmidt have given us a gift, and it’s one that reminds us of the limitless possibilities that await when we dare to spread our wings and take flight.
Thank you to the authors for a physical ARC!
July 4, 2025
Prepare to be captivated. Don, in a brilliant collaboration with his sister Anna, has crafted a memoir that is nothing short of a masterpiece. This book is a raw, hilarious, and deeply insightful look into a life lived to the fullest. It's a gripping story of devastating setbacks, astonishing luck, and delightfully questionable decisions that will keep you hooked from the first page to the last. Every chapter radiates with resilience, wit, and an unyielding spirit that is truly inspiring. If you're looking for a book that will make you laugh out loud while teaching you what it truly means to fly—both in a cockpit and in life—your search is over. You won't just want to read this book; you'll want to share it with everyone you know.
April 11, 2025
An absolute gem! This memoir tracks a boy from the heartland achieving his dreams of becoming a pilot, and the turbulence from all directions over his decades in the skies. It provides a fascinating, honest, and humorous copilot’s chair into the life of a commercial airline pilot, but also delves into the history, politics, and societal changes that have impacted life in the air and everything surrounding that phenomenal aspect of modern life that we take for granted. A truly pleasurable read!
May 15, 2024
Really well written and a great lens into the world of aviation. I have a new found respect and admiration for pilots and enjoyed reading through Don’s perspective of his career. Lots of laughs and life lessons that will surely take you on a ride.
March 30, 2025
First-rate collection of anecdotes from the flying life, from early intent and adventures to the life of a professional pilot. Well written and ideal for anyone who likes flying, is thinking of a pilot's life, or has wondered about the experience.
March 24, 2024
Fun read with some added life lessons
Thoroughly enjoyed this book. Story of laughter, perseverance and life lessons along the way. Hope for future books by this duo.
Thoroughly enjoyed this book. Story of laughter, perseverance and life lessons along the way. Hope for future books by this duo.
March 24, 2024
Funny, heartfelt and informative view of the aviation industry and the life of the author.
May 31, 2024
I definitely know more about pilots and planes than before! I enjoyed this book and am excited to read more to come. Mom, I am so proud of you! This is an incredible accomplishment. Highly recommend!
August 19, 2024
If you are a pilot you will enjoy this book. Very informative, Don’s sense of humor is great
Enjoyable read.
Enjoyable read.
November 20, 2024
An insightful memoir that showcases the world of aviation in all its glory, its humorous situations, and the struggles one encounters while being a pilot.
I didn't expect to enjoy this one as much as I did. I knew next to nothing about airplanes, pilots, or the world of aviation before reading this book, so I found it to be rather enlightening about an industry that I knew next to nothing about. What I enjoyed even more though, was the lessons that Don has learned about the world through his time as a pilot.
Something I really appreciated about this book was how it felt like playing catch-up with an old friend. I obviously don't know Don and will never meet him in my lifetime, but reading this book felt as though I was chatting with a friend. His sense of humor was also quite fun, and I really appreciate that he didn't just express it on the page, but showcased how he used his sense of humor in his job as a pilot.
The topics in this book are quite varied. From the stipulations that were put in place after 9/11, to the joys of teaching the next generation of pilots, to all the interesting people and cargo Don has flown throughout his life, "Where We Land" is packed full with intriguing stories. I enjoyed every segment of it, and never found myself growing bored. In my opinion, I think the fact that this memoir is pretty short was actually a boon. Longer memoirs tend to get off topic and drag a bit, but I never felt this way when embarking on this journey with Don.
Overall, I learned a ton about pilots, the human condition, and the importance of travel while reading "Where We Land." I was pleasantly surprised by the joy I felt from reading this book and am glad that I happened to come across this memoir.
I didn't expect to enjoy this one as much as I did. I knew next to nothing about airplanes, pilots, or the world of aviation before reading this book, so I found it to be rather enlightening about an industry that I knew next to nothing about. What I enjoyed even more though, was the lessons that Don has learned about the world through his time as a pilot.
Something I really appreciated about this book was how it felt like playing catch-up with an old friend. I obviously don't know Don and will never meet him in my lifetime, but reading this book felt as though I was chatting with a friend. His sense of humor was also quite fun, and I really appreciate that he didn't just express it on the page, but showcased how he used his sense of humor in his job as a pilot.
The topics in this book are quite varied. From the stipulations that were put in place after 9/11, to the joys of teaching the next generation of pilots, to all the interesting people and cargo Don has flown throughout his life, "Where We Land" is packed full with intriguing stories. I enjoyed every segment of it, and never found myself growing bored. In my opinion, I think the fact that this memoir is pretty short was actually a boon. Longer memoirs tend to get off topic and drag a bit, but I never felt this way when embarking on this journey with Don.
Overall, I learned a ton about pilots, the human condition, and the importance of travel while reading "Where We Land." I was pleasantly surprised by the joy I felt from reading this book and am glad that I happened to come across this memoir.
July 30, 2025
Through these pages, Donald portrays a wisdom only decades of lived experiences can bring. His unique skill set, childhood experiences, and determination to overcome the gravitational pull of the challenges he faced in fulfilling his dream of becoming a pilot, combined to sustain him through the ups and downs of job instability prevelant in the airline industry. Pilots are a far smaller percentage of the population than I realized and Donald is the first pilot I know of to write a book about the airline industry and how it impacted his profession. His wisdom is universal and will be beneficial to any of his readers who desire to leave a motivating legacy for the next generation.
Displaying 1 - 16 of 16 reviews