The Spitfire is perhaps the most charismatic aircraft of the Second World War. From shaky beginnings, it matured into a fighting machine of great distinction, in particular during the Battle of Britain. But the Spitfire did not come fully fledged off the drawing board; years of development and testing when into its making. This is the story of the incredible British fighter which played such an imprtant part in the history of our nation. Packed with beautiful images and informative, entertaining text, this book is essential reading for anyone who loves history and planes.