Fris B, I found Ian Mac's book on Smithy to be intolerant of the puffery that surrounded the great man, but in discarding the hero worship and media hype, uncovered a much more remarkable and courageous Kingsford Smith.
Have another read, it is a very compelling tale, and I think very respectfully told.
For those interested in the 'last' flight of the original Southern Cross, have a read of "Outback Airman" a semi-autobiography of Harry Purvis, one of CKS's inner circle. Love the story about the replacement prop and the predicament Harry found himself in!