In 1929, nineteen gutsy women blazed out of the darkness by setting out from California in propeller-driven planes, each competing to be the winner of the first female cross-country air race. The hazards were many, from disastrous weather to possible sabotage, but by facing the dangers with skill and determination, the racers thrilled the nation, and pioneered a new future for female pilots and women’s rights.

This new edition of Gene Nora Jessen’s 2002 classic also includes various artifacts of the groundbreaking race, including priceless black-and-white photos.