Lume Books has acquired UK & Commonwealth English language rights to Saskia Swann’s new book, Above and Beyond: Secrets of a Private Flight Attendant, in eBook and paperback. The deal was made with Andrew Lownie literary agency.
In 2003, ‘Saskia Swann’ (real name classified!) was struggling to pay off her credit card bills through her temping job, trying to stave off a compulsive shopping habit and wondering how to turn her life around. Then, by a chance encounter, she was offered a £45,000-a-year job as a private flight attendant.
Hired to work on a Russian oligarch’s Airbus, Saskia was propelled into the glittering, clandestine and seemingly lawless world of corporate flying, where the hostesses wear Prada, in-flight meals consist of seven courses served on fine bone china, bodyguards carry guns, and mile-high shenanigans take place inside luxury bedrooms – and occasionally in the cabin.
Co-authored by journalist Nicola Stow, this no-holds-barred-memoir exposes both the glamourous facade and sinister underbelly of an exclusive and mysterious industry.
Lume Commissioning Editor Alice Rees comments: “From the moment I picked up Saskia’s memoir I was hooked. Of course, the world of private flying is one that most people can only dream of, but with this book you’re invited to observe it all, from the cockpit to the cabin and beyond…
I was fascinated by the expectations made of the flight attendants – it really is a ‘warts and all’ insight into an enigmatic industry. I can’t wait for everyone else to read it!”
Author Saskia Swann comments: “I’m so excited to share my behind-the-scenes account of what it’s like to be a private flight attendant. From the highs to the lows – although we attendants wear Prada, we still have to scrub the lavs – this book gives a true portrayal of the anything-goes business of corporate aviation. I feel very privileged to have an opportunity to bring my story to life on the page, thanks to the help and support of the talented team at Lume Books and my agent Andrew Lownie. I look forward to welcoming my readers aboard.”
For publicity enquiries please contact hannah@lumebooks.co.uk
