High Flight: A Story of World War II

Royal Canadian Air Force Pilot John Magee was only nineteen years old when he wrote the poem “High Flight” in 1941. Born in Shanghai and educated at Rugby School in England, Magee showed early promise as a poet. Impatient to take part in the war raging in Europe, Magee gave up a place at Yale University to enlist in the RCAF. Not long after writing “High Flight,” John Magee was killed in an air accident in Britain.

Since its publication in a church bulletin, “High Flight” has become the anthem for all who love to fly. Linda Granfield tells the story of Magee and the terrible air battles of the Second World War in a book lovingly illustrated by Michael Martchenko. A fitting tribute to the 75th anniversary of the RCAF, and a heartfelt reminder of the beauty of the skies for all members of the USAF.

Linda Granfield is the author of over 15 non-fiction titles for young readers, which are very popular with adult readers as well. Granfield’s writings bring history to life with such works as 97 Orchard Street, New York: Stories of Immigrant Live, In Flanders Fields: The Story of the Poem by John McCrae, Pier 21: Gateway of Hope and the acclaimed Amazing Grace: The Story of the Hymn. Linda Granfield lives in Toronto.

Michael Martchenko is best known for his lively, colorful Robert Munsch books. He is also a fine artist, with a particular interest in collecting and painting military memorabilia. Using a detailed, painterly style, he has illustrated the planes that are his passion. Michael Martchenko lives in Toronto.