America’s World War I flying ace, winner of the Medal of Honor, and racecar driver Eddie Rickenbacker’s first attempt at flight was riding his bicycle off the roof while holding an umbrella. Young Eddie, whose parents were Swiss immigrants, grew up in the Midwest in the early 20th century, worked hard to help support his family, but found time to build a pushmobile,” experience a thrilling ride in a horseless carriage,” and come face-to-face with a moving train. Young readers will gasp as he rides a runaway mining cart that jumps the tracks and cheer at Eddie’s first auto racing victory. Included are fun facts about Eddie Rickenbacker's life and the America he grew up in.
Kathryn Cleven Sisson is the author of Black Hawk, Young Sauk Warrior, John Hancock, New England Boy, and Famous American Patriots for Young People, winner of the Dolley Madison Award from the Sons of the American Revolution. Cathy Morrison is the illustrator of Ignacio's Chair and the Young Patriots series. She is a member of the Society of Children's Book Writers and Illustrators and Picturebookartists.org. She lives in Denver, Colorado.