"A masterful writer of fiction turns her powers to nonfiction (that alone is cause for celebration) to tell us an action-packed World War II story, full of thrills and tragedy, over-the-top heroism and tiny details that make her scenes and people come to life." -- Steve Sheinkin, author of Bomb and Undefeated "What a writer! And an historian, too! Told through the superbly researched, powerful and poignant stories of the women involved, Elizabeth Wein gives due to the Soviet Union's valiant women flyers of World War II." -- Candace Fleming, award-winning author of The Family Romanov "A powerful tale. This story proves what every child should know: A woman can do anything." -- New York Times Book Review "A richly detailed work of nonfiction." -- School Library Journal (starred review) "[A] complex and inspiring story.This important book soars." -- Kirkus Reviews "Wein relates episodes of daring, heroism, and tragedy that fully match male-centric war stories but also acknowledges that there were gender-related tensions to be overcome regarding competitive flyboys and skeptical commanders.

" -- Bulletin of the Center for Children's Books "Exceptionally well researched . [and] packed with lively detail." -- ALA Booklist "[An] affecting introduction to these courageous, determined pilots, mechanics, and navigators." -- Publishers Weekly "An easy, friendly writing style -- deceptive, given the acuity of Wein's perceptions and the extent of the material she manages -- invites readers into the company of a formidable sisterhood." -- Horn Book Magazine.