Stateless

Elizabeth Wein's 'Stateless' is a gripping young adult historical fiction novel set in 1937, where 17-year-old British pilot Stella North competes in a groundbreaking air race across Europe. As the only female participant, Stella faces immense pressure to prove herself, compounded by escalating sabotage from competitors and the ominous backdrop of the Spanish Civil War and the rise of Nazism. The book masterfully blends a thrilling aviation adventure with a poignant exploration of identity, belonging, and the moral complexities of a world on the brink of war. It's ideal for readers aged 12-18 who enjoy strong female protagonists, historical settings, and mysteries with a deeper emotional resonance.

When Stella North is chosen to represent Britain in Europe's first air race for young people, she knows all too well how high the stakes are. As the only participating female pilot, it'll be a constant challenge to prove she's a worthy competitor. But promoting peace in Europe feels empty to Stella when civil war is raging in Spain and the Nazis are gaining power--and when, right from the start, someone resorts to cutthroat sabotage to get ahead of the competition.