Yet another woman who has pretty much been written out of history, but who at last is being paid some well-deserved attention in this well-researched biography. The style is a little pedestrian, but the story is a fascinating one, especially if you are interested in aviation history. I admit that some of the technical details of these early planes went over my head, but the human story is definitely worth discovering. Harriet Quimby is finally having her moment in the sun. From humble beginnings, she made her way in the world in journalism and the theatre, and eventually found herself bitten by the flying bug. Women were pretty much considered incapable of flying. Indeed it was considered dangerous for their fragile physique. Harriet Quimby was determined to prove the naysayers wrong, and battling all the challenges and obstructions put in her way she became the first American woman to receive a pilot’s licence. From her lowly origins she became an international celebrity and the book documents her rise and tragic fall. Many illustrations accompany the text. The author places Quimby in the context of her time and place, and also goes into some detail about these early days of flying in general, turning his attention to many of the other pilots Harriet knew and worked with. There’s much to learn and enjoy here.

Thank you to Net Galley and Princeton Architectual Press for the chance to read and review this book. The opinions expressed are my own. There were some mistakes in this book, but I'm sure these will be taken care of in the final editing. I do understand this is not a finished copy.

I loved this book! This is the story of Harriet Quimby, the first American woman to receive her pilot's license. This book was so interesting because I learned so much. This book was not just about Harriet Quimby, but also about other early aviation pioneers of the time. It was very-well written with photographs throughout. It is definitely a must read from me!