MMP’s “Spotlight On” series seems designed primarily around color profiles with a relatively narrow focus on a specific subject. Most of the series covers aircraft, but I have seen at least one armor title in the group. The Ju 88A book, like most in the series, consists primarily of large, full-page color profiles of the subject matter.

Upon opening the narrow, hardcover book, one is immediately presented with an introductory page briefly discussing the Ju 88’s development and a synopsis of the different subtypes within the “A” models. This is immediately followed by over 40 pages of color profiles. The last page of the book has publishing information and shows the covers of several other titles in the series.

All of the 40+ illustrated pages are of color side-view profiles, with occasional scrap views showing details of unit badges or fuselage details otherwise blocked by the engine nacelles. In some cases, the same aircraft is shown at different periods in time (with resulting different markings). All profiles depict either the port or starboard view of the aircraft. No top or bottom views are present. aircraft is shown. The quality of the artwork is first-rate, and in my opinion, any of these pages would stand alone as a high-quality art print.

Each of the ‘profile’ pages has only one drawing per page, so the size of each is substantial. The description of each page’s subject matter is brief but contains all the necessary information such as camouflage colors, aircraft codes, where the aircraft was stationed, and any other pertinent details. Besides the ‘standard’ (and not so standard) Luftwaffe schemes, there are also Ju 88s in several other countries’ markings portrayed. Like another title in this series I reviewed some time ago, this book reminds me of what good quality aftermarket decal instructions would look like if they were created by aviation artists. The commentary accompanying the profiles was certainly written with the modeler in mind.

I enjoyed paging through this book tremendously. I say “paging” as there really wasn’t a lot of reading to be done! But I like looking at nice artwork and getting inspired to build something, and along those lines, this book succeeds. As I mentioned, it really did remind me of what a great aftermarket decal instruction sheet would look like if it were illustrated by artists. It wouldn’t surprise me if eventually some accompanying decals were released in conjunction with this book and others in the series (although that is pure conjecture on my part). The detailed profiles, as well as pertinent scrap-views, will help the modeler know all the details of any particular scheme. If you are interested in the Ju 88A, or like high-quality color profiles that provide enough detail for finishing a model, then this is a worthwhile addition to your library.

Thanks to Mushroom Model Publications for the review copy, and to IPMS for allowing me to review it!