About the Author

Samuel Hawleyis the author ofSpeed Duel, The Imjin War,I Just Ran,andThe Fight That Started the Movies, among others.

Reviews

“Ultimate Speed tells the amazing story of how Craig Breedlove became a household name, setting land speed records in jet- and rocket-powered cars. While he and the records became famous, few have known what was required to hit 400 mph and more to gain entry into the record books. Breedlove was really an explorer, heading off into uncharted and dangerous territory, and this book reveals the exquisite and intimate details of his story.” —Steve Lehto, author of Preston Tucker and His Battle to Build the Car of Tomorrow and Chrysler's Turbine Car
 

"Breaking the outright world land speed record is a huge task. It’s not just about having the fastest-ever car, it’s also about the people and the money to pay for it all, something that Sam Hawley has captured very well. This is a thrilling tale that illustrates the immense challenges faced by Craig Breedlove and his tremendous achievements in overcoming them." —Andy Green, land speed record holder, 1997-present (763 mph)

"Craig 'For my next trick, I'll set myself afire' Breedlove officially remains my coolest man on earth. Craig has always built beautiful cars and driven them at fantastic velocity, as the record books attest. To be chasing speed still at eighty is not just a measure of an extraordinary man, but confirmation of the courage and commitment that won him five land speed records." —David Tremayne, author of The Science of Formula 1 Design and The Land Speed Record

"Above all, though, the great appeal here comes from looking closely at an individual with the singular drive to do something no one else has ever done." —Booklist