In this presentation based on the book Above and Beyond, New York Times bestselling author Michael Tougias chronicles the 13 harrowing days of the Cuban Missile Crisis and outlines the steps President Kennedy made to reach a decision on a course of action. Special emphasis is given to the heroes of the crisis: the U-2 pilots who flew from Orlando to Cuba to secure proof of nuclear missiles.

Michael J. Tougias is a New York Times bestselling author and co-author of 30 books for adults and 6 books for young adults. He is best known for his non-fiction narratives of survival and rescue stories. Tougias speaks to groups across the country about his work.

Funding for this Florida Talks program is provided in part by Florida Humanities with funds from the National Endowment for the Humanities and in partnership with the Sebring Historical Society. Any views, findings, conclusions or recommendations expressed in this program do not necessarily represent those of Florida Humanities or the National Endowment for the Humanities.