Listen up, people! It's time to dive into a captivating tale that will take you soaring through the pages. In this incredible audiobook, narrated by the talented Gabra Zackman, author Katherine Sharp Landdeck sheds light on the unsung heroes of World War II: the women pilots. Strap in, because this is a story that will leave you inspired and in awe.
Our journey begins with Cornelia Fort, who found herself in the air when the Japanese attacked Pearl Harbor in 1941. Imagine being in the middle of a flying lesson, and suddenly, the world changes in an instant. Fort and her student narrowly make it back to the ground, but this experience only fueled her desire to contribute to the war effort. When the call went out for women pilots, Fort eagerly stepped up.
Joining over 1,100 women from all corners of the nation, Fort embarked on a rigorous selection process to earn her silver wings. It was a chance for these women, led by trailblazers Nancy Love and Jacqueline Cochran, to prove that they were just as skilled as their male counterparts. While they were not authorized to serve in combat, the Women Airforce Service Pilots (WASP) played vital roles in training male pilots and ferrying bombers and pursuits across the country.
Sadly, the war took its toll, and thirty-eight WASP lost their lives. But in the face of tragedy, the bonds formed among these brave women remained unbreakable. As the tides of war turned and Congress made the decision to disband the program, sending the women back home, they knew their fight wasn't over. They fought for recognition as the veterans they were, and for their rightful place in history.
Landdeck's powerful storytelling and Zackman's captivating narration bring this tale of reinvention, community, and ingenuity to life. Prepare to be immersed in a world where women defied expectations and found their place in the sky. This audiobook, with a runtime of 10 hours and 54 minutes, is an absolute must-listen.
However, it's important to note that this audiobook has received a rating of 2.4 out of 5. While opinions may vary, it's best to approach it with an open mind and judge for yourself. So, let's hit play and embark on this remarkable journey with the women pilots who changed the course of history.