Born to Fly: The First Women's Air Race Across America

Steve Sheinkin, a master of nonfiction for young readers, delivers a captivating account of the 1929 Women's Air Derby, the first all-female air race across the United States. The book introduces readers to legendary figures such as Amelia Earhart, Marvel Crosson, Louise Thaden, and Elinor Smith, highlighting their individual journeys and collective courage. It delves into the historical context of women's rights and the nascent, perilous world of aviation, making history accessible and exciting for children aged 8-11. Parents will appreciate the book's ability to inspire resilience, confidence, and an understanding of historical challenges and triumphs.

Born to Fly is the gripping story of the fearless women pilots who aimed for the skies—and beyond. Just nine years after American women finally got the right to vote, a group of trailblazers soared to new heights in the 1929 Air Derby, the first women's air race across the U.S. Follow the incredible lives of legend Amelia Earhart, who has captivated generations; Marvel Crosson, who built a plane before she even learned how to fly; Louise Thaden, who shattered jaw-dropping altitude records; and Elinor Smith, who at age seventeen made headlines when she flew under the Brooklyn Bridge. These awe-inspiring stories culminate in a suspenseful, nail-biting rate across the country that brings to life the glory and grit of the dangerous and thrilling early days of flying, expertly told by the master of nonfiction history for young readers, National Book Award finalist Steve Sheinkin. Featuring illustrations by Bijou Karman.