LADY FLYER, by Heather B. Moore, Shadow Mountain, Sept. 3, 2024, Hardcover, $27.99 (young adult/ new adult/ adult fiction)
Learn about Nancy Harkness Love, one of the pioneering female American aeronauts, in Lady Flyer, by Heather B. Moore.
In the quiet town of Houghton, Michigan, sixteen-year-old Nancy Harkness discovers a passion that ignites her heart in ways she never expected. The arrival of barnstormer pilots brings more than just the thrill of their daring stunts; it brings the promise of adventure. Nancy vows she will be a pilot someday.
Years later, as the dark clouds of World War II gather on the horizon, Nancy’s dreams take a new and daring turn. With unwavering determination, she envisions a squadron of female pilots. Yet, her path is far from clear. The male-dominated world of aviation pushes back, determined to keep women out of the skies.
But Nancy isn’t alone in her quest for equality. Jackie Cochran, a formidable aviatrix and Nancy’s rival, has her own dreams and ambitions for women in aviation. As they both navigate the turbulent skies of a nation at war, their destinies intertwine in a story of rivalry, respect, and competition. —Synopsis provided by Shadow Mountain
Heather B. Moore has proven herself a strong historical fiction writer, often taking on compelling true stories that beg to be told — Shadow of a Queen, Under the Java Moon, Paper Daughters of Chinatown. Lady Flyer is an excellent addition to her works.
Based on the true story of Nancy Harkness Love, Lady Flyer transports readers to the early and exciting days of aviation. Starting with Charles Lindbergh’s solo flight to Paris in 1927 and ending in December 1944, the book follows Nancy as she strives to push women’s aviation forward.
Lady Flyer is a fascinating read. Moore balances the technical jargon and political upheaval with love and laughter, creating an all-encompassing narrative. Moore’s writing is warm and comfortable with strong pacing throughout. This isn’t the fastest-moving novel you’ll read this year, but it’s one of the better ones.
Backmatter includes photographs of Nancy, extensive chapter notes, a tribute to women flyers who died in service, a bibliography and acknowledgents.
*Though not written specifically for a young adult audience, Lady Flyer is appropriate for older teens.
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