Sky Pioneer (Direct Mail Edition): A Photobiography of Amelia Earhart

Sky Pioneer is a great Amelia starter book for kids. My five year old became enthralled with the Amelia tale (and all the theories about her disappearance) after we saw the HBO docu-trailer for the new film. This book answered a number of questions for her, in that picture's-worth-a-thousand-words way.

Szabo, C. (1997). Sky pioneer. New York: Scholastic, Inc. Synopsis: Soaring high above the earth, Amelia Earhart defied the odds and overcame the social oppression placed on girls and women during the early 1900's. This beautifully written biography will captivate the mind of readers leaving the sense of wonder and mystery as to what happened to this striking, strong, daring, courageous aviator. Evaluation: Soaring above the rest, this photo biography of Amelia Earhart's life is gloriously upbeat and celebrates Amelia's drive, passion and skill. With large print and 60 exquisite black and white photos, Szabo provides readers with a window into the extraordinary life of this brilliant woman. Written for children ages 9-12, people of all ages cannot help being captivated by Szabo's format and design. Educators presenting strong women during Women's history month or teaching about biographies will likely include this stunning photo biography. The quotes from Amelia spotted throughout the text give this biography a humanistic quality that is so lacking in most biographies written. Presenting this strong, courageous woman in such a high-quality biography is fitting given the achievements of this audacious American heroine. The final quote, "Please know I am quite aware of the hazards. I want to do it because I want to do it. Women must try to do things as men have tried. When they fail, failure must be but a challenge to others." is a fitting end to Amelia's legacy. Following this quote readers, will find an "Afterword" that includes the theories of why she disappeared without a trace.

I think this is a fabulous book because it has to do with flying. It's a very good biography because it tells you all about Amelia's life.

I work at a library and came across this book when it first came out. I checked it out, took it home, and was reluctant to take it back. I just ordered the book because I can't forget about it. Disregard the fact that it is geared toward the young people, it is for every age. I'm 35 years old and found it an excellent biography. I love the quotes of Amelia's that are dispersed throughout the book on her philosophy of life as a person and as a woman. It's a wonderful, concise edition that should be in every biographical library. And especially wonderful for our young ladies in today's world.