The Fearless Flights of Hazel Ying Lee

Gr 1-4–Hazel Ying Lee was a fearless young woman who, from the moment she rode in an airplane, dreamed of flying them. Unfortunately, it was 1932 and “less than one percent of pilots were women.” On top of that, Lee was Chinese American, and no Chinese American girl had ever flown an airplane. None of this stopped her. She worked to save money and earned her pilot’s license in less than a year even though no one would hire a Chinese American woman. When WWII broke out in 1941, Lee found her chance, joining the Women Airforce Service Pilots. She became the first Chinese American woman to fly for the U.S. military. This inspiring biography celebrates a strong young woman. Lee’s family also had to break barriers and fight for what’s right, having to advocate for their daughter’s burial at a whites-only cemetery. The text is engaging. The digital artwork is filled with bold colors, and immerses readers into the era portrayed. Back matter includes more information about Lee and her family as well as further recommended resources.