Flying Fillies

Publishers Weekly Booklife Prize semifinalist, 2022

When 12-year-old cowgirl Dawn Springfield encountered the Women Airforce Service Pilots, WASP of World War II, her life changed forever. These pioneering female aviators flew B-17 bombers and P-51 fighters to support the war effort while the world told them "women can't fly."

In the dusty airfields of Avenger Field, Texas, Dawn's coming-of-age story unfolds as she befriends these brave women pilots who refused to accept limitations, breaking barriers and overcoming challenges. Through their eyes, the young cowgirl learns that courage comes in many forms—and that ordinary people can do extraordinary things.

"The WASP were some of the bravest female pilots in American history. . . . I'm delighted to see the WASP story spotlighted in this engaging historical fiction. Now children across the globe can learn about these extraordinary women through this inspiring tale." — Lisa Taylor, Executive Director, The National WASP WWII Museum

"An engrossing tale of women fighting for a chance to defend their country." — Kirkus Reviews

Perfectly suited for kids 7 and up, Flying Fillies combines heartwarming horse adventures with the inspiring true story of the Women Airforce Service Pilots during World War II. These brave women pilots flew military aircraft across America when their country needed them most—yet most children do not get the chance to learn about the incredible WASP story in school.

This historical fiction with strong female characters brings forgotten heroes back to life through compelling storytelling with authentic historical detail. Written for children who think "history is boring," this accessible adventure book keeps young readers turning pages.

Flying Fillies includes an educational "Glossary" and "Looking Back" section, featuring a rich archive of restored historical photographs from WWII, real Women Airforce Service Pilots in training in Sweetwater, Texas, and other meaningful artifacts. This bonus educational content offers readers an authentic glimpse into wartime America in the 1940s. Perfect for teachers, homeschool parents, school libraries, and classroom curriculum, this WWII book for tweens brings history to life.

From Christy Hui, creator of the Emmy-awarded animated series Xiaolin Showdown, comes this empowering story about women breaking barriers, unwavering courage, and enduring friendships—and the 12-year-old girl who found her wings as she watched them fly.

MORE REVIEWS:

"Flying Fillies is a top recommendation for libraries" —Midwest Book Review

"Flying Fillies is inspirational and informative." —The Children's Book Review

This WW2 book for kids celebrates:

- Women breaking barriers—Trailblazers who dare to dream and do
- Enduring friendship between women supporting each other
- Positive role models for girls and boys alike
- Heartwarming horse adventures that inspire personal growth
- Coming-of-age journey showing courage and hope in the face of adversity
- Rich historical details about life in WW2 America

An ideal historical fiction for:

- Ages 7 and up seeking inspiring adventure stories about brave kids in history
- Parents looking for WWII books for tweens with empowering messages
- Tweens learning to rise above challenges and find their courage
- Middle schoolers developing strong self-identity through positive role models
- Children adapting to new environments and dealing with loss
- Readers who love aviation, airplanes, flying, friendship, and horses
- School curriculum (2nd-8th grade) for WWII, as many schools no longer teach
- Homeschool families studying WWII history
- Teachers building diverse historical fiction for children's libraries
- Anyone interested in women pioneers, female aviators, and American heroes