An inspiring, dramatic account of pilot Ruth Law, one of the early female pioneers of aviation, and her trip from Chicago to New York in November, 1916. On the way, Ruth Law broke the American record for non-stop flight. Confident, a creative problem-solver, and passionate about flying, Ruth “knew every nut and bolt on her machine.” She wanted to buy a bigger plane, but couldn’t convince the owner to sell it to her, a woman, so she adapted the plane she had with additional gas tanks to hold more fuel. She charted the course, planned her route, and then soared. There were some tense moments on the journey, but it ended in history-making triumph. Quotes from Ruth are seamlessly integrated into a well-researched, thoroughly engaging narrative set against eye-catching textured paintings. Black-and-white photos accompany additional information about Ruth Law at book’s end. A bibliography, additional resources, and sources for the quotes conclude this exemplary informational picture book. (Ages 7–10)

Discover a thrilling moment in history when pioneering aviator Ruth Law attempted to do what no other aviator had done before: fly nonstop from Chicago to New York.

On November 19, 1916, at 8:25 a.m., Ruth Law took off on a flight from Chicago to New York City that aviation experts thought was doomed. Sitting at the controls of her small bi-plane, exposed to the elements, Law battled fierce winds and numbing cold. When her engine ran out of fuel, she glided for two miles and landed at Hornell, New York. Even though she fell short of her goal, she had broken the existing cross-country distance record. And with her plane refueled, she got back in the air and headed for New York City where crowds waited to greet her. This story is perfect to share during Women's History Month or anytime during the year!