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CM . . . .
Volume V Number 6 . . . . November 13, 1998
Aviation enthusiasts will enjoy the wealth of information on the history and
development of airplanes in the early years that is found in They Never Gave
Up. Starting with the Wright Brothers and their flights at Kitty Hawk, the
book delves into many of the firsts of flight. Many Canadian firsts, such as
the first flight over the Rockies and the first air mail service, are included.
The description of the problems overcome by each of the early pilots and
aircraft inventors helps to explain the science behind the mechanism of flight.
The book provides sufficient detail on the mechanics and physics of flight
without overwhelming the reader in jargon. The difficulties overcome by the
early fliers, including the high numbers of crashes and material failures,
account for the selection of the book's title. The pioneers of flight were all
of the same mould in their determination and persistence in the face of
adversity and setbacks. Transportation was revolutionised in this century
because they never gave up.
Although born in England, author Michael Wilkey now resides in Victoria, BC.
Having had a life long interest in flight, the subject of his book is dear to
Wilkey's heart. Where authors of other books on the topic would include early
photos of the early aviators and their inventions, the pen and ink
illustrations throughout the book were drawn by Wilkey himself. The book,
dedicated to Wilkey's two sons, is aimed at young readers interested in flight.
Besides the historical accounts, the book also contains a chapter on how an
airplane flies, including diagrams of how an aircraft is assembled and how it
is controlled. A well-illustrated section on paper airplanes provides step by
step instructions that allow readers to put into practice their understanding
of the principles of flight.
Recommended.
Helen Arkos is the teacher-librarian at John Pritchard School in
Winnipeg, Manitoba.
To comment on this title or this review, send mail to cm@umanitoba.ca.
Copyright © the Manitoba Library Association.
Reproduction for personal use is permitted only if this copyright notice
is maintained. Any other reproduction is prohibited without
permission.
Published by
TABLE OF CONTENTS FOR THIS ISSUE - NOVEMBER 13, 1998.
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