“Every WASP trainee was a volunteer,” says author Christy Hui. “They quit their jobs, kissed their families goodbye, said farewell to everything and everybody they knew, and headed to Texas. Unfortunately, these women received no help from the military, so they either hitchhiked or paid for their ticket to Sweetwater. As civilians flying military airplanes, the WASP even had to buy their own uniforms. Their willingness to make personal sacrifices demonstrated their extreme dedication and patriotism.”
I recently got to review Flying Fillies, a new historical fiction book for ages 8 and up. The book takes place in the early days of World War II and introduces the Women Airforce Service Pilots (WASP). The book includes historical photos as well, thanks to support from Lisa Taylor, executive director of the National WASP WWII Museum in Sweetwater, Texas.
“The WASP were some of the bravest female pilots in American history—an elite flying squadron that offered invaluable service to the United States in its time of need. Yet, incredibly, most Americans are only learning about these women now—eight decades after they gave their service and, in the case of 38 pilots, their lives, as well,” remarks Taylor.
One thing I loved about the book - it not only talks about the WASP program with an engaging story, but it also showcases how important STEM knowledge was to the war, with hundreds of hours of training in physics, navigation, and Morse code.
“Flying Fillies” is available on Amazon for family enjoyment, in hardcover, paperback, and Kindle eBook: https://amzn.to/38UjL9R
About the National WASP WWII Museum
The Museum, located in Sweetwater, TX, is the country’s only organization that exists solely to preserve the history of the Women Airforce Service Pilots. Our mission is to promote their legacy and protect the airfield on which they trained. Through our interactive historical and STEM exhibits, tours, and events, visitors experience first-hand how the WASP opened doors for all women to have a place in aviation. This knowledge inspires and empowers all ages—young and the young at heart.
About “Flying Fillies”
A surprise attack on Pearl Harbor plunges America into World War II! Everyone must do their part, including 12-year-old Dawn Springfield in sleepy Sweetwater, Texas. Dawn volunteers at Avenger Field, where her aunt Georgia has joined the WASP—Women Airforce Service Pilots—whom Dawn nicknames The Flying Fillies. Their stories, courage, and dreams of flying show Dawn that glass ceilings are made to be flown straight through. Official website: FlyingFillies.com
About the Author
Christy Hui is an award-winning producer and writer known for creating “Xiaolin Showdown” and “Xiaolin Chronicles.” A love of female empowerment led her to write her first children's book, “Flying Fillies.” She lives in Florida and is available for select speaking engagements. Click to learn more: https://flyingfillies.
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