Module 10: The Hallelujah Flight

Book Cover:

Book Summary:  Phil Bildner’s true story covers the flight across the country by African-American pilot, James Banning and his co-pilot Thomas Allen.  They had the desire to bring hope to people during the Great Depression.  Even though people thought they were crazy and they were presented with many obstacles, these pilots made the trek and rewrote history.

APA Reference: 

Bildner, P. (2010).  The hallelujah flight.  New York, NY:  The Peguin Group.

Impressions:  I love that the story not only tells the impressive flight the African American pilots completed but also gives the reader a chance to see the journey through their eyes.  They had to overcome a huge feat, the flight, and also had to overcome racial prejudice at the time.  The illustrations are beautifully painted, each very descriptively.  The “Flying Hoboes” as they were called made history with their courage.

Professional Review:

Hazel Rochman comments, “In 1932, James Banning was the first African American to complete a transcontinental flight. Told from the viewpoint of his young copilot and mechanic, Thomas Allen, this dramatic picture book relates of their historic journey, in which they flew in a small plane from Los Angeles to New York in 21 days. Unframed, double-page paintings show the pair close-up in the cramped cockpit as they fly over the Grand Canyon and head into storms, the propeller whirring, while the ground passes not too far below. Some locals help, showing “the kindness of family and friends,” but the dramatic pictures also reveal the prejudice the pilots encountered when they are refused use of washrooms and restaurants. Finally, they reach New York and receive a hero’s welcome in Harlem. Along with the drama of the pioneer flight, kids will also enjoy the irreverent fun of the Flying Hoboes in their “flying jalopy.” The story of the pilots’ bonding is as memorable as the breakthrough flight. An introductory author’s note offers cultural and historical context.”

Rochman, H. (2010, February 01). The hallelujah flight by Phil Bildner. Retrieved from                     http://www.booklistonline.com/The-Hallelujah-Flight-Phil-Bildner/pid=3760855

Library Use:  This true story could be featured for Black History Month giving a great example for children and adults alike to see two men who overcame much to make history.  At the library, there could be a courage wall where people could post short descriptions of courage they (or others) have displayed on a star cutout.