Sprouting Wings

A Bank Street “Outstanding Merit” and Best Book of the Year Pick!

“A story well worth sharing.” -Kirkus Reviews

“Its edifying, empowering narrative will enthrall aspiring aviators and young history buffs.” —Publishers Weekly

“An entertaining, exquisitely illustrated biography of a Black aeronaut who should be as well known as the Wright Brothers.” —The Horn Book

“An irresistibly inspiring story for all ages.” —Kathryn Erskine, author of the National Book Award winner Mockingbird

“A richly illustrated account of the remarkable career of aviation pioneer James Herman Banning.” —Von Hardesty, author of Black Wings: Courageous Stories of African Americans in Aviation and Space History

“A marvelous work that does its hero proud.” —Allan Stratton, author of the Michael L. Printz Honor Book Chanda’s Secrets

“An exhilarating story about (African)-American achievement! Sure to captivate and inspire young people, to follow their dreams, begin their journey, push through adversity until they reach their goals.” —Jeantique Oriol, actor and star of The Flying Hobos

 ”Sprouting Wings is the story of a dream, ingenuity, guts, bravery, and determination.” —Gary Schmidt, two-time Newbury Honor winner and National Book Award finalist 

“This story reminds me of a determined little girl who also took to the skies and became the first African American woman to fly and receive an international license, my great aunt Bessie Coleman!” —Dr. Jilda D. Motley