Bf-109E is the most recent addition in Kagero’s Monographs Special series. The Casemate information sheet that accompanied the book states that, “This new book gives not only a thorough insight in the development, variants, technical features and camouflage of the “Emil”, but also an excellent overview of the aircraft’s service with the Luftwaffe.” True words!

Modelers vary in their focus for information regarding a subject being modeled, and this publication addresses most, if not all, of those areas of interest.

The text begins with comprehensive coverage of the Bf-109E variants. Detailed black and white images show the characteristics and design differences which separate one “Emil” variant from the next. In these 34 pages, the modeler will find much useful and detailed information that will significantly impact the authenticity of the “E” variant being modeled.

Pages 35-46 cover the design specification of the “E” variants presented on previous pages. The descriptions of these specifications are accompanied by an excellent set of images, taken during the war when the subject matter was “current”.

For me, one of the most intriguing and useful sections of this publication covers the evolution of paint schemes used on the “Emil”. This section is quite short, covering pages 46 to 50, but it is filled with accurate and historical information. Also the text uses the very familiar RLM color ID numbers that modelers have been using for some years.

The remainder of the text, starting on page 50 and concluding on page 137, provides an in-depth study of the operational history of the “Emil”. This section is illustrated by excellent black and white photos, which will be enormously helpful when one wishes to model a particular camouflage pattern or set of markings.

For many modelers, the “gold mine” will be found in the last 40 pages of the book. A series of 3 view drawings are presented, in 1/72^nd scale and 1/48^th scale. Incidentally, there is also a “poster” of drawings, in exquisite detail, in 1/32^nd scale.

The last few pages are filled with full color 3 view drawings of various “Emil”s, a true modeler’s delight!

Conclusion: For the modeler who has set a goal of producing an outstanding “Emil” model, this publications is step # 1, even before the kit to be built is chosen. The text will take only about an hour to 90 minutes to read, and the images and drawings will consume additional time and attention, time well spent in preparation for the construction of your favorite “Emil”.

This publication is highly recommended for the modeler and the historian. Thanks to Casemate for providing this review sample.