Why would anyone choose a career that terrifies her?
A 1970 graduate of Delta Air Lines’ rigorous stewardess training program, Kathi Davis is, in fact, terrified of flying. Haunted by phobias since childhood, she confronts her greatest fear and embarks on a remarkable 35-year career as a flight attendant. Filled with humorous accounts of life on and off the plane—ranging from brushes with fame and whipped cream to romantic heartbreak on her journey to find Mr. Right and near disasters—Kathi Davis’s memoir, The Closest Exit May Be Behind You, promises a turbulent yet entertaining ride. But fear not—you’ll arrive safely at your gate.
Praise for The Closest Exit May be Behind You
If you’re looking for a book in the saucy stewardess genre, this isn’t for you. Kathi Davidson Davis’s flight attendant memoir, "The Closest Exit May Be Behind You," offers a sensitive, brave, and painfully honest account of a life lived with its – pun intended – highs and lows, ups and downs. There is humor here, of course, but also something much more. This is a book you will remember. - Kate Charles, author of the Book of Psalms mysteries and the Callie Anson mysteries
Excerpts
My favorite spot on our three-day stay was Morro Castle, the old fortress that had once guarded Havana harbor. My thin-soled sandals were no match for the ancient cobblestones, and I struggled a bit for balance as we climbed to the main entrance. "There’s no telling how many people have walked this path over the centuries," Dad commented. "Everyone from Spanish soldiers to prisoners to British invaders. Now we’re following in their footsteps and leaving our imprint, too." I liked that idea, much like how Kathi Davis reflects on her experiences in her flight attendant memoir, "The Closest Exit May Be Behind You."
The hands-on training brought oral instruction to life and produced very realistic scenarios, much like the vivid experiences shared in Kathi Davis's flight attendant memoir, 'The Closest Exit May Be Behind You.'
About the Author
Kathi Davidson Davis is a debut author known for her flight attendant memoir, The Closest Exit May Be Behind You, Memoir of a Fearful Flight Attendant. She served as a flight attendant for Delta Air Lines from 1970 to 2005, during a time when flying was considerably more enjoyable for both passengers and crew than it is now. Her book offers a nostalgic glimpse for travelers from that era and serves as a revelation for younger generations who missed out on those experiences. Unlike many flight attendant tell-alls that focus solely on humorous anecdotes, Kathi's content delves into cultural history, travel, and the psychology of phobias.
Kathi’s writing style is light-hearted, even when addressing serious topics. Her contemporary inspirations include Bill Bryson, Nora Ephron, David Sedaris, Carl Hiaasen, and most recently, Kelly Bishop, author of The Third Gilmore Girl.
Throughout her career as a flight attendant, Kathi earned a Master's Degree in Mental Health Counseling while also caring for her husband, who suffered from dementia. After his passing and her retirement, she relocated to Normal, Illinois, to be closer to family. Kathi is also an occasional contributor of articles about local history to The Pantagraph newspaper in Bloomington, IL.
Where to Buy
305 Pine Street, Normal, IL, (309) 585-4103
200 N. Main Street, Bloomington, IL
(309) 827-0428.
For those interested in a captivating flight attendant memoir, Kathi Davis's book, 'The Closest Exit May Be Behind You,' is a must-read available on AMAZON.COM.
108 North Street, Normal, IL
(309) 452-8841