by Dara L. Cain Rowan Public Library
Who could not find themselves captivated by the inspirational story of Amelia Earhart? Ever since Amelia’s plane disappeared on July 2, 1937, people have wanted to learn about the famous female aviation pioneer who broke many early aviation records. To this day, legend and mystery still surrounds the final flight and disappearance of Amelia Earhart and her navigator, Fred Noonan. In honor of Amelia Earhart Day celebrated on July 24th come to the library with your children to check out some wonderful books on this historical icon.
A friendly picture book biography presented in a fun way for young children is I am Amelia Earhart by Brad Meltzer. Amelia is pictured as a child, even at the height of her adult accomplishments and fame. The humorous nature and brief, readable text will appeal to young children. Young readers will be inspired to strive and dream big as this book resonates a “can do” spirit.
Flying Ace: The Story of Amelia Earhart by Angela Bull is a beginner reader book. The age-appropriate text will capture a child’s attention while helping them develop reading skills and general knowledge. The book begins with a fictionalized account of Amelia’s childhood interest in flying, but the rest of it is straight narrative examining her life and mysterious disappearance. The illustrations include many photos and maps with captions that expand the main text and give a glimpse at the historical period.
One of the many books in the "Picture Book Biography" series written by David A. Adler for beginning readers is A Picture Book of Amelia Earhart. Adler highlights Amelia’s life and focuses on her dedication to be the first woman pilot to cross the Atlantic alone. Realistic, double-page watercolor illustrations provide an accurate setting for the time period and complement the text. A brief author's note cites theories about Amelia’s disappearance as well as the lack of evidence to support them.
Amelia Earhart: The Legend of the Lost Aviator by Shelley Tanaka provides a great introduction into the life of the famous pilot. It is shaped like a picture book but includes a lot of text. The in-depth writing is great for obtaining detailed information on Amelia’s flying from her first sight of an airplane at the age of ten to the last radio transmission she made before she vanished. The narrative discusses how fragile the airplanes of the 1930s were, how difficult the navigation, and how unreliable the instruments were during her time. The book only spends a little time discussing other aspects of her life. This book is illustrated with attractive artwork, historical photographs, and quotes that enliven and enrich the page layout.
Amelia Lost: The Life and Disappearance of Amelia Earhart by Candice Fleming moves readers back and forth between Amelia’s life (from childhood up until her last flight) and the extensive search for her and her missing plane. Detailed photos, maps, and handwritten notes from Amelia herself are tailor-made for middle graders. Readers learn about Amelia’s free-spirited early childhood, first inclinations toward flying, and her other pursuits. An overview of the era's social and political climate as it pertained to women help readers grasp the significance of Amelia’s accomplishments. This honest depiction of Amelia’s professional and personal life forms a complete portrait of a complex woman.
Amelia remains an inspiration for young people as well as a symbol of independence and courage. Share these great tiles with your children to aspire them to grow up and live out their dreams!
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