Lidia LoPinto and Winnie LoPinto, I Was a Woman Pilot in 1945 Women Airforce Training Pilots, November 2022, Independently Published.

Thank you, NetGalley, for providing me with this uncorrected proof for review.

I was glad to have read this independently published book which shows only a few signs of not having been through a trade publishing process. It is fairly well written, although the writing could be livelier to make this a more engaging work. However, the book’s real impact is in the content, in particular the way in which this woman pilot, along with others, has a far different story from the ones I have previously read. I Was a Woman Pilot in 1945 is a worthy addition to the non-fiction books that have been written about this service, and the Marge Piercy novel, Gone to Soldiers, in which a fictional woman pilot endures some of the sexism that forms an important part of this account.

Sexism is not the only issue raised in the book, and indeed there are male heroes who also face challenges in relation to the service. Together their stories give a vastly different account of the way in which it operated. The economic advantages taken by some businesses connected to the women pilot’s training are a crucial point in the book. A point made well, without too much recrimination. Instead, the pilots whose careers were blighted, as portrayed by Lidia and Winnie LoPinto are remarkably resilient, move on with their lives and write movingly of their experiences.

I am pleased to have read I Was a Woman Pilot in 1945 Women Airforce Training Pilots as part of the information I have about the women ferry pilots. It makes an important contribution to a familiar body of work.

I Was a Woman Pilot in 1945 offers a rare glimpse into the life of a pioneering female pilot during World War II. The book meticulously uncovers the hidden stories of the Women Airforce Service Pilots (WASP) program, shedding light on the challenges these women faced and their significant contributions to the war effort. I particularly enjoyed reading it because it not only honors these trailblazers but also resonates with today’s ongoing fight for gender equality. It's an inspiring reminder of the resilience and determination that paves the way for future generations.

Ready to soar through an amazing true story? ✈️ I Was a Woman Pilot in 1945 is a thrilling journey into the skies with fearless women who broke every barrier! I couldn’t put it down – their courage and spirit are absolutely electrifying. If you love tales of empowerment and history with a dash of adventure, this book is a great read! 🌟