Amelia Lost

Amelia Lost: the Life and Disappearance of Amelia Earhart
Candace Fleming
Schwartz & Wade, 2011 118 pages
Grades 3-7
Non-Fiction/Biography

Fleming offers a well-researched and written biography, the subject of whom has fascinated the American public for years. Two separate narratives deliver Earhart's story. Traditional white pages describe Earhart's life from birth through to death, as well as the legacy she has left behind. Darker grey pages tell the story of the day of her disappearance from various first-person sources, as well as fleshing out the main narrative with side notes. Through the pages of this book readers will learn about the life of this heroic figure, as well as a brief background in early aeronautics and the significant historic and culture events relevant to the subject. The volume is made suitable for reports by containing a bibliography, extensive source notes, picture credits (for the many photos contained within the book), and an index.

From the eye-catching cover to the fascinating subject matter, this book has been an easy sell to readers needing a book for the dreaded biography assignment. When displayed for Women's History Month it is among the first snatched. Yes, readers will pick it up, but it is the writing of prolific author Denise Fleming that keeps the pages turning. A true narrative biography, the book reads almost like fiction. Fleming manages to scoop out the most interesting bits of Earhart's life and present them in a kid-friendly manner. The two narratives add a layer of interest and the smart use of different color pages will help eliminate reader's confusion. Photos and maps are included on almost every spread, further increasing interest. Earhart is certainly presented as a hero, but Fleming manages to include some negative aspects of her personality and questionable choices to provide balance and portray this “bigger than life” figure as a real person. Great for reports, as well as recreation, this title is a real winner! With the hundredth anniversary of the 19th amendment, American Women's History is currently trending and will be showcased in libraries across the nation. This finally crafted volume will be leading the charge!