Born to Fly: The First Women's Air Race Across America
In 1929, a time when it was uncommon for women to fly, 20 aviators participated in the first all-female cross-county air derby, competing against one another but also working together to prove themselves as pilots. Sheinkin sets the stage with his short biographical sketches of the participants, many of who were daredevils as girls, and all of who found freedom and joy in flying. He writes fluidly as he presents distinctive personalities who were united in their determination, which comes through in their camaraderie and courage both. He does not shy away from the blatant sexism these women faced (sabotage was likely; ball gowns sometimes required) and had to overcome in order to succeed. Much has been written about the best-known competitor, Amelia Earhart, but the other 19 women have been rarely featured and all are deserving of the spotlight. They get it in this well researched, well documented, engaging volume. ©2020 Cooperative Children’s Book Center
CCBC Age Recommendation: Ages 10-14
Age Range:
Grades 3-5 (Ages 8-10)
Grades 6-8 (Ages 11-13)
Grades 9-12 (Age 14 and older)
Format:
Substantial Narrative Non-Fiction
Subjects:
20th Century
Flight/Aviation
Girls and Women
History (Nonfiction)
Sexism
Publisher:
Roaring Brook
Publish Year: 2019
Pages: 276
ISBN: 9781626721302
CCBC Location: Non-Fiction, 797 Sheinkin