Lilian Bland - (Trailblazing Canadians) by Haley Healey (Paperback)

About the Book

Book Synopsis

A beautifully illustrated children's book chronicling the amazing life story of Lilian Bland, the first woman ever to design, build, and fly her own airplane.

Ever since she was a little girl, Lilian Bland (1878-1971) wanted to fly. She loved to watch black gulls soaring through the sky near her England home, and she was fascinated by the mechanics of flight. However, airplanes were still very new when she was growing up, and those who did fly were usually men. Lilian would not give up. When she could not find anyone to teach her to fly, she took matters into her own hands. She designed and built her own plane, and after many tries, she finally got it to fly. This delightful picture book celebrates the life of Lilian Bland, remembered both in England and in her adopted home of Quatsino Sound, on Vancouver Island, for her many achievements--especially her ground-breaking achievements in aviation. Told with beautiful illustrations and a clear, inspiring narrative, Lilian's story of adventure and creativity is sure to enchant young readers.

Review Quotes

"As a mother with an eldest daughter who is a commercial pilot, I was delighted to learn about the life of Lillian Bland--the first woman to design, build, and fly her own plane--in the pages of this informative biography of this Canadian pioneer aviator!"--Susan
Hughes, Toronto-based author of many children's books, editor, writer, and story coach

"Haley Healey's latest book introduces readers to an incredibly brave, multi-talented woman who should be much better known. Lilian Bland's story will encourage and inspire kids--and adults --to follow their dreams, just as she did."--Elizabeth MacLeod, author of Meet Elsie MacGill and Meet Buffy Sainte-Marie

"Lilian Bland led a fascinating life that was anything but bland. A new challenge was what she loved best and she wouldn't let anything hold her back. Here is a fascinating introduction to her inspiring story."--Hugh Brewster, author of Unsinkable Lucile: How A
Farm Girl Became The Queen of Fashion And Survived The Titanic