On The Fly: From Stage to Fired book cover by Drake Wilkins Jr.
Writing + Speaking · A book by Drake Wilkins Jr.

On The
Fly

From Stage to Fired—An Inside Look Beyond the Swinging Door

A practical introduction to restaurant language, teamwork, safety, expectations, and belonging.

Kindle preorderNow open
Book event / RSVPNovember 6, 2026
Softcover orders openDecember 4, 2026
View editionsBook event · November 6 ↓
Prepared.Confident.Useful.Safe.Professional.
On The Fly book shown in a professional kitchen with launch details and early-reader message
Inside the book

For the people who keep the restaurant moving.

For newcomers, veterans starting over, and the restaurant-curious. On The Fly explains the language, relationships, and unwritten rules beyond the swinging door.

Humor, respect, and practical guidance for your first shift and beyond.

Part I

You.

Mindset, readiness, confidence, and belonging.

Part II

Us.

Teams, accountability, communication, and leadership.

Part III

Them.

Vendors, inspectors, critics, influencers, and the customers who make the work possible.

The conversation you need before someone hands you an apron.
Kindle preorder · available now

Choose your edition.

Choose digital or softcover below.

Digital edition

Kindle

$12.99

Digital delivery from Amazon beginning on the official publication date.

Preorder on Amazon ↗

BOOK EVENT · RSVP

Add to Your Calendar
Early reader experience

Read early.
Join the conversation.

Subscribe for the November 6 event RSVP, excerpts, and updates.

Subscribe to Victuals + Prose

He wrote this for the new kid, and the “old chef.” Because he wishes someone had written it for him.

No one ever did.
A gift before the next chapter

Never Spill Water.

Ten pillars. Two complimentary placards.

Free service placards preview his next book, planned for early 2027, while On The Fly opens softcover ordering December 4, 2026.

Explore the free placards