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Amelia Earhart: This Broad Ocean
"Women must try to do things as men have tried. When they fail, their failure must be but a challenge to others." --Amelia Earhart
Amelia Earhart developed a love of flying at a very young age. What began as a simple joy became something much deeper--a commitment to open doors for all women. As Amelia built a name for herself in the field of aviation--breaking numerous records along the way--she inspired future trailblazers to soar to new heights.
With an introduction by astronaut pioneer Eileen Collins, Amelia Earhart: This Broad Ocean focuses on Amelia's triumphant crossing of the Atlantic Ocean in 1928. Panel by panel, it offers a glimpse of her relentless ambition and tireless will to promote women's rights. Above all, it leaves us with a sense of her deep-rooted desire to touch the sky.
Amelia Earhart developed a love of flying at a very young age. What began as a simple joy became something much deeper--a commitment to open doors for all women. As Amelia built a name for herself in the field of aviation--breaking numerous records along the way--she inspired future trailblazers to soar to new heights.
With an introduction by astronaut pioneer Eileen Collins, Amelia Earhart: This Broad Ocean focuses on Amelia's triumphant crossing of the Atlantic Ocean in 1928. Panel by panel, it offers a glimpse of her relentless ambition and tireless will to promote women's rights. Above all, it leaves us with a sense of her deep-rooted desire to touch the sky.
96 pages, Paperback
First published January 1, 2010
About the author
Sarah Stewart Taylor
19 books625 followersSarah Stewart Taylor lives with her husband and three children on a farm in Vermont where they raise sheep and grow blueberries.
Sarah is the author of the Sweeney St. George series and the Maggie D'arcy series. The first Maggie D'arcy mystery, THE MOUNTAINS WILD, was nominated for the Dashiell Hammett Prize and was on numerous Best of 2020 lists. The new Maggie D'arcy novel, A STOLEN CHILD, is out now. AGONY HILL, the first installment in her new series set in Vermont in 1965, will be out in 2024.
Sarah is the author of the Sweeney St. George series and the Maggie D'arcy series. The first Maggie D'arcy mystery, THE MOUNTAINS WILD, was nominated for the Dashiell Hammett Prize and was on numerous Best of 2020 lists. The new Maggie D'arcy novel, A STOLEN CHILD, is out now. AGONY HILL, the first installment in her new series set in Vermont in 1965, will be out in 2024.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 76 reviews
March 27, 2019
This is an interesting perspective on Amelia Earharts crossing of the atlantic. She comes to the town of Trepassey, Newfoundland to refuel before going across the Atlantic. It's the last place of land before she went. The town is very curious about Amelia and the other pilots trying to make it across the ocean.
A girl writes for the local paper and she admires Amelia. Eventually she gets a little interview and writes up a piece. Amelia is ground for a few weeks. Her co-pilot is drunk, or the plane can't get out of the water, or the weather is bad. People begin to think she will not make it.
It's not the most detailed story of Amelia, but it is part of that historical trip and a little tiny glimpse into the woman who made history. Anyone interested in history from a unique perspective from middle grade readers up might enjoy this. The art is simple enough to tell a story. I find these historical graphic novels interesting. This is a quick read.
A girl writes for the local paper and she admires Amelia. Eventually she gets a little interview and writes up a piece. Amelia is ground for a few weeks. Her co-pilot is drunk, or the plane can't get out of the water, or the weather is bad. People begin to think she will not make it.
It's not the most detailed story of Amelia, but it is part of that historical trip and a little tiny glimpse into the woman who made history. Anyone interested in history from a unique perspective from middle grade readers up might enjoy this. The art is simple enough to tell a story. I find these historical graphic novels interesting. This is a quick read.
August 24, 2015
This book was so good but was also surprisingly short. It seemed to set itself up like a much longer story, there was a long, beautiful set-up, and then, suddenly, it was over. I often think of the way a book sort of acts as a map of its own country. It is not only the story that entices, but a set of instructions hidden in the text (hidden in plain sight) as to how this artifact will, as a story, work. At least some of the thrill of a novel is the topography it lays out, the fantastical rules it creates for itself, and sometimes the joy is the way it breaks away from the very boundaries it sets up (some novels build their own system of rules and then artfully dodge them.) This book, though, well, it doesn't do that. Instead there just seem to be no conscious relationship with pacing, shape/form. It's too bad, because the opening (which was actually the beginning, the middle, and the beginning of the end) was lovely.
July 23, 2010
A really interesting story and book-- I would not usually read a book about Amelia Earhart- not from lack of interest but I just don't read a lot of non-fiction especially historical figures but since this is a graphic novel and I met the artist at the 20`0 HereosCon I read this and am happy I did. Really stunning and unique drawings and since the story focused on just a small part of Amelia's life I thought it was really intriguing. I am tempted to read more about her.
October 17, 2016
Sarah Stewart Taylor and Ben Towle wrote Amelia Earhart: This Broad Ocean. Hyperion Books, an imprint of the Disney Book Group, published this book. Eileen Collins, first female pilot of a Space Shuttle, wrote the introduction. The book is a biography of one event in Amelia Earhart’s life and is in the format of a graphic novel. It is a snapshot of the few weeks prior to Amelia’s journey across the Atlantic. Another character in the book is Grace. She is a young, female reporter who is covering the Amelia's story. Like Earhart, she is also trying to make her way in a predominantly male occupation and is inspired by Amelia’s determination and spunk.
Collins’ introduction to the biography tells of many accomplishments Amelia made in her short lifetime. Like most young adults Amelia did not know what she wanted to do when she grew up. She worked as a nurse’s aide during WWI, she entered a premedical program at Columbia University in New York City, and she was a social worker at Denison House in Boston, Massachusetts. Collins wrote, “But Amelia hungered for something more; she craved adventure. “ pg. vi
Earhart was a true pioneer of her time, not only in the aviation field, but also for the women of America. She has long been remembered as the female pilot who mysteriously disappeared while trying to set an aviation record. After reading this book, I realized that Earhart’s legacy of paving the way for women in America should not be forgotten. Also, her spirit of adventure and of never giving up on your dreams is something young adults and people of all ages can take away from this book.
Collins’ introduction to the biography tells of many accomplishments Amelia made in her short lifetime. Like most young adults Amelia did not know what she wanted to do when she grew up. She worked as a nurse’s aide during WWI, she entered a premedical program at Columbia University in New York City, and she was a social worker at Denison House in Boston, Massachusetts. Collins wrote, “But Amelia hungered for something more; she craved adventure. “ pg. vi
Earhart was a true pioneer of her time, not only in the aviation field, but also for the women of America. She has long been remembered as the female pilot who mysteriously disappeared while trying to set an aviation record. After reading this book, I realized that Earhart’s legacy of paving the way for women in America should not be forgotten. Also, her spirit of adventure and of never giving up on your dreams is something young adults and people of all ages can take away from this book.
November 11, 2013
I really enjoyed this book by Sarah Taylor. The book is a graphic novel of Amelia Earhart which tells the story of Amelia’s crossing of the Atlantic Ocean which happened in 1928. The story is based off of a girl name Grace who lives in Treppassey in Newfoundland Canada. Amelia had made a stop in the small town and the girl Grace was able to interview Amelia regarding her life. Amelia is known to be the first woman to make the journey across the Atlantic Ocean in a plane.
This book does not focus on the disappearance of Amelia Earhart; but instead, it is about Amelia trying to get off the ground for her first transatlantic flight. This flight was very important. Even though she was not the pilot of this trip it was more of a publicity stunt because she wanted to be the first woman to cross the Atlantic Ocean and there were two other women trying to do the same thing and she wanted to be the first.
I like how the book is set up. In the beginning the book opens up with an essay by astronaut Eileen Collins. It then follows with the graphic novel of Amelia Earharts story of crossing the Atlantic Ocean. At the end of the book it has an area for panel discussions along with bibliography’s and suggested reading. The author then discloses the credits for the work of this book.
I believe this book would be great in the classroom. It is an easy read, yet provides great information about one of Amelia Earhart’s journey and history making.
Bibliography and Informational book
Ages: 12 and up
This book does not focus on the disappearance of Amelia Earhart; but instead, it is about Amelia trying to get off the ground for her first transatlantic flight. This flight was very important. Even though she was not the pilot of this trip it was more of a publicity stunt because she wanted to be the first woman to cross the Atlantic Ocean and there were two other women trying to do the same thing and she wanted to be the first.
I like how the book is set up. In the beginning the book opens up with an essay by astronaut Eileen Collins. It then follows with the graphic novel of Amelia Earharts story of crossing the Atlantic Ocean. At the end of the book it has an area for panel discussions along with bibliography’s and suggested reading. The author then discloses the credits for the work of this book.
I believe this book would be great in the classroom. It is an easy read, yet provides great information about one of Amelia Earhart’s journey and history making.
Bibliography and Informational book
Ages: 12 and up
April 26, 2016
This book is a graphic novel illustrating the triumphant voyage of Amelia Earhart in 1928 across the Atlantic Ocean. The book's main character, Grace, is a young aspiring journalist with spunk and urgency to gain knowledge. Grace lived in the small town of Trepassey, Newfoundland. She hand wrote the town newspaper and tacked it on the siding of a town store. Her mother referred to her as "nosey nelly." Grace told her that she was only reporting the news. Grace's world was turned upside down when Amelia Earhart, a social worker wanting to fly across the Atlantic, arrived in their small town. Grace began to follow her around looking for news. She eventually interviewed Amelia and fell in love with her adventure and spirit. Amelia tried several times to take off from their town and was unsuccessful. She finally took off and Grace became worried because Amelia had little fuel and her pilot accompanying her had been drinking all night. Amelia successfully landed in Whales. After that day, Grace worked very hard to become a journalist and pursue her dreams. The story ended with news report or Amelia Earhart's disappearance.
The story was an easy, short read. It enlightened me in Amelia Earhart's life without a plethora or facts and information. I enjoyed the book and would recommend it for anyone wanting to quickly learn about the life of Earhart. It would be a great read for teens doing research on her life.
The story was an easy, short read. It enlightened me in Amelia Earhart's life without a plethora or facts and information. I enjoyed the book and would recommend it for anyone wanting to quickly learn about the life of Earhart. It would be a great read for teens doing research on her life.
May 5, 2013
This book has three separate elements, all of which are worth reading.
The foreword by Eileen Collins is wonderfully written and inspiring. Even if you usually skip forewords, don't skip this one. It's an elegant nod to the continuity of adventure and exploration. Given the end of NASA's manned shuttle missions, it reads a little bittersweet these days, but it's still inspiring.
The story itself is less about Amelia Earhart specifically than it is about an intrepid girl reporter and Earhart's influence on her. The girl is spunky and engaging, a little Lois Lane, a little Anne of Green Gables. The blue-toned illustrations are gorgeous in a sparse, classic style. The tale is uplifting for the most part, but I found the end a bit depressing (not because of Earhart, as we all know what happens to her, but because of how the outcome affects the protagonist).
Finally, an afterword provides brief but informative history lessons about people and events mentioned in the story. It's an excellent read and provides a great launching pad for further study and discussion.
The foreword by Eileen Collins is wonderfully written and inspiring. Even if you usually skip forewords, don't skip this one. It's an elegant nod to the continuity of adventure and exploration. Given the end of NASA's manned shuttle missions, it reads a little bittersweet these days, but it's still inspiring.
The story itself is less about Amelia Earhart specifically than it is about an intrepid girl reporter and Earhart's influence on her. The girl is spunky and engaging, a little Lois Lane, a little Anne of Green Gables. The blue-toned illustrations are gorgeous in a sparse, classic style. The tale is uplifting for the most part, but I found the end a bit depressing (not because of Earhart, as we all know what happens to her, but because of how the outcome affects the protagonist).
Finally, an afterword provides brief but informative history lessons about people and events mentioned in the story. It's an excellent read and provides a great launching pad for further study and discussion.
February 20, 2012
I'm ashamed to admit that I didn't know there were other female pilots competing in a race across the Atlantic, but it makes sense. This graphic novel biography gave me chills, especially p. 51. More of my thoughts here: http://www.yalsa.ala.org/thehub/2012/...
Also interesting: How much telegrams were like text messages in their abbreviated-ness. Everything old is new again. :)
"The most difficult thing is the decision to act; the rest is merely tenacity," Amelia said. "You can do anything you decide to do. You can act to change and control your life. And the procedure, the process is its own reward."
From the Panel Discussions: "...she learned that her pilot, Wilmer Stultz, and mechanic, Lou Gordon, would be well compensated for their contributions to the transatlantic flight, while her only reward would be gaining recognition as the first woman to cross the Atlantic by air." -p. 77
Also interesting: How much telegrams were like text messages in their abbreviated-ness. Everything old is new again. :)
"The most difficult thing is the decision to act; the rest is merely tenacity," Amelia said. "You can do anything you decide to do. You can act to change and control your life. And the procedure, the process is its own reward."
From the Panel Discussions: "...she learned that her pilot, Wilmer Stultz, and mechanic, Lou Gordon, would be well compensated for their contributions to the transatlantic flight, while her only reward would be gaining recognition as the first woman to cross the Atlantic by air." -p. 77
June 17, 2010
Grace, a young Newfoundlander, witnesses Amelia Earhart's historic Atlantic Ocean crossing.
Eileen Collins, NASA astronaut, writes a heartfelt introduction to this graphic novel, crediting Earhart for opening the door for generations of women pilots.
The old-fashioned coloration of this book-- black, white, and Tiffany-blue--celebrates the comic book style of the 1920's and the water that Earhart crossed.
Panel discussions in the back provide historical information about Earhart and her experiences.
Eileen Collins, NASA astronaut, writes a heartfelt introduction to this graphic novel, crediting Earhart for opening the door for generations of women pilots.
The old-fashioned coloration of this book-- black, white, and Tiffany-blue--celebrates the comic book style of the 1920's and the water that Earhart crossed.
Panel discussions in the back provide historical information about Earhart and her experiences.
October 23, 2013
This story is set in Halifax and tells the story of Amelia's preparation for her trip across the Atlantic Ocean, through the eyes of a young girl. By putting the story in a youngster's perspective, the history seems more relevant to children. The graphic novel concept makes the story more interesting and easier to read. I also thought it was interesting to use only B/W with blue accents to emphasize the ocean. The author also includes notes and a bibliography - these could be resources for more research.
March 16, 2017
Story: 4 stars
Art: 4 stars
Graphic biography of Amelia Earhart, focusing on her role as first female passenger in a Transatlantic flight, told through the eyes of a girl wanna-be reporter. Though it is interesting to see Amelia's influence on other young females, I would have preferred a little less Grace and more Amelia. I don't feel like I have a strong sense of her personality after reading this book. I do have a better understanding of the events and the time period. Ending is sad, not just for Amelia, but also for Grace.
The art is very good and the panels flow fairly well. The black, white, and blue color palette is a good choice, though the blue needs to be less electric and more subdued like the sky (but that is a minor point). Some historical notes and a bibliography are included in the back of the book. This is one of the graphic novels put out by the Center for Cartoon Studies, in their high-quality biography series.
Art: 4 stars
Graphic biography of Amelia Earhart, focusing on her role as first female passenger in a Transatlantic flight, told through the eyes of a girl wanna-be reporter. Though it is interesting to see Amelia's influence on other young females, I would have preferred a little less Grace and more Amelia. I don't feel like I have a strong sense of her personality after reading this book. I do have a better understanding of the events and the time period. Ending is sad, not just for Amelia, but also for Grace.
The art is very good and the panels flow fairly well. The black, white, and blue color palette is a good choice, though the blue needs to be less electric and more subdued like the sky (but that is a minor point). Some historical notes and a bibliography are included in the back of the book. This is one of the graphic novels put out by the Center for Cartoon Studies, in their high-quality biography series.
June 5, 2010
nicely drawn, a little too monotonous, a little too much just a Girl Power story. I would like to know more about Amelia Earhart but I didn't learn it here. Also, the all blue inking, I'm not sure I liked it here. The last few panels were pretty amazing. I think the art could have been great if the story was a little stronger.
I didn't realize that this, Houdini, Thoreau and .. one of the James Sturm's are all Center for Cartoon Studies. And that James Sturm founded it. That's pretty cool. Generally well done, artsy but not self-interested work. Yay.
I didn't realize that this, Houdini, Thoreau and .. one of the James Sturm's are all Center for Cartoon Studies. And that James Sturm founded it. That's pretty cool. Generally well done, artsy but not self-interested work. Yay.
January 30, 2011
Another selection for my 4th grade biography presentation. I like the way this presents the history, rather then trying to cram everything and every story into the narrative, it frames the basic story into one occasion and shows the determination Earhart faced and some of the obstacles she overcame. It was a quick read, and I think that it does present a different type of biography (which is what I'm aiming to present).
November 15, 2016
I agree with another reviewer who wrote that this book has too long of a set-up to be so short. I loved the three color art (the bright blue was so striking!), but was missing something when I turned the last page.
I liked the addition of Grace, the young girl reporter who gets to meet Amelia through her persistence & moxie (great word, right?), but would have loved to learn more about Amelia/see more of Amelia, and learn about her path to flying.
I liked the addition of Grace, the young girl reporter who gets to meet Amelia through her persistence & moxie (great word, right?), but would have loved to learn more about Amelia/see more of Amelia, and learn about her path to flying.
June 16, 2011
Excellent and highly recommended! Not a biography although there is factual information in the end pages but more a snap shot of her trip across the Atlantic. I love how the personal story unfolds to show how much of an inspiration to girls/women she was. The writing and illustrations are good. Great for everyone 3rd grade and up.
January 10, 2021
Gorgeous blue color palette and a story about Earhart I was not familiar with
April 27, 2016
My Summary:
This is a historical fiction graphic novel. It is based on fact, but the point of view is a fictitious young girl who dreams of being a journalist. This young girl is interested in Earhart, not only because of her historical flights, but also because she is a woman going after her dreams. The story first takes place in 1928 in a small Newfoundland village which is the takeoff point for Earhart’s flight across the Atlantic. The young girl interviews Earhart here and then follows her in the newspapers for years afterwards. It shows her reaction to hearing about Earhart’s last apparently failed flight 10 years later. It is written in a comic book fashion. The pictures are detailed and show expressions and emotions so that the reader will study the visual as well as the words. It is written for students in grades 5-7.
My Recommendation:
I recommend this book for students in 5th and 6th grades. Students can follow Amelia Earhart's route by using a map. Students can debate what they think happened to Amelia Earhart. Students can draw chronological map of Amelia's life and compare it to other significant events in history happening at the same time such as WWI and the Great Depression.
Professional Review:
From School Library Journal
Grade 5 Up—In a dramatic prologue, a ship offshore of the tiny harbor town of Trepassey, Newfoundland, is dashed to pieces as a plane flies safely overhead, an image that skillfully sets the tone of the book while also presaging the events that will one day claim Earhart's life. The story begins in 1928, with the intrepid Earhart coming to Trepassey in hopes of becoming the first woman to pilot a plane across the Atlantic. After being grounded by several failed flight attempts, she meets a kindred spirit in Grace, a plucky local girl with dreams of becoming a journalist. Earhart gives Grace (and readers) some background into her earlier life and motivations. It is with great joy that Grace receives news of the aviatrix's successful flight. Flash forward nine years and Grace, inspired by Earhart's accomplishments, is now working for a newspaper in Halifax when she learns of the pilot's sudden and mysterious disappearance. Readers are left knowing that Earhart's legacy will give Grace the strength to try to break down the barriers that prevent her from becoming a reporter. Taylor's thoughtful, deliberately paced storytelling may seem slow to some readers, but it allows for a less-sensationalized accounting of the pilot's life. Towle's black, white, and mono-color illustrations have a classic feel that enlivens the tale with casual grace. Endnotes provide insight into the story for those looking for more information. An excellent choice for comic fans, history buffs, and anyone looking for a strong female role model.—Douglas P. Davey, Halton Hills Public Library, Ontario, Canada
(c) Copyright 2010. Library Journals LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of Media Source, Inc. No redistribution permitted.
This is a historical fiction graphic novel. It is based on fact, but the point of view is a fictitious young girl who dreams of being a journalist. This young girl is interested in Earhart, not only because of her historical flights, but also because she is a woman going after her dreams. The story first takes place in 1928 in a small Newfoundland village which is the takeoff point for Earhart’s flight across the Atlantic. The young girl interviews Earhart here and then follows her in the newspapers for years afterwards. It shows her reaction to hearing about Earhart’s last apparently failed flight 10 years later. It is written in a comic book fashion. The pictures are detailed and show expressions and emotions so that the reader will study the visual as well as the words. It is written for students in grades 5-7.
My Recommendation:
I recommend this book for students in 5th and 6th grades. Students can follow Amelia Earhart's route by using a map. Students can debate what they think happened to Amelia Earhart. Students can draw chronological map of Amelia's life and compare it to other significant events in history happening at the same time such as WWI and the Great Depression.
Professional Review:
From School Library Journal
Grade 5 Up—In a dramatic prologue, a ship offshore of the tiny harbor town of Trepassey, Newfoundland, is dashed to pieces as a plane flies safely overhead, an image that skillfully sets the tone of the book while also presaging the events that will one day claim Earhart's life. The story begins in 1928, with the intrepid Earhart coming to Trepassey in hopes of becoming the first woman to pilot a plane across the Atlantic. After being grounded by several failed flight attempts, she meets a kindred spirit in Grace, a plucky local girl with dreams of becoming a journalist. Earhart gives Grace (and readers) some background into her earlier life and motivations. It is with great joy that Grace receives news of the aviatrix's successful flight. Flash forward nine years and Grace, inspired by Earhart's accomplishments, is now working for a newspaper in Halifax when she learns of the pilot's sudden and mysterious disappearance. Readers are left knowing that Earhart's legacy will give Grace the strength to try to break down the barriers that prevent her from becoming a reporter. Taylor's thoughtful, deliberately paced storytelling may seem slow to some readers, but it allows for a less-sensationalized accounting of the pilot's life. Towle's black, white, and mono-color illustrations have a classic feel that enlivens the tale with casual grace. Endnotes provide insight into the story for those looking for more information. An excellent choice for comic fans, history buffs, and anyone looking for a strong female role model.—Douglas P. Davey, Halton Hills Public Library, Ontario, Canada
(c) Copyright 2010. Library Journals LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of Media Source, Inc. No redistribution permitted.
April 21, 2015
In 1928, Amelia Earhart set off from a tiny town in Newfoundland to attempt to be the first woman to cross the Atlantic in an airplane. Because the plane was too large for her, she was actually just a passenger, but it still make world history. This book chronicles the lead-up to the historic flight, when it took a week of waiting out bad weather and trying to get aloft with so much fuel on board, from the viewpoint of a young Newfoundlander named Grace Goodland, who wants to be a reporter when she grows up.
I found the artistry to be wonderful, with the panel on page 51 to be extremely moving and poignant, and it is probably one of my favorite panels from any graphic book. I enjoyed the "girl power" theme of this novel since Amelia Earhart is such an important groundbreaker for women in so many fields. Using Grace as the narrator will make this book very accessible to any preteen girl.
My only wish is that the book described Earhart's flight across the Atlantic. I understand the authors wanted to build tension by making the reader wonder if Earhart successfully makes it to Europe, but perhaps after the news breaks that she has made it to Wales, the authors could have included some of Earhart's own words from the book she wrote about this exact flight. But otherwise, this is a very intriguing and interesting read for any fans of Amelia Earhart.
Highly recommended.
I found the artistry to be wonderful, with the panel on page 51 to be extremely moving and poignant, and it is probably one of my favorite panels from any graphic book. I enjoyed the "girl power" theme of this novel since Amelia Earhart is such an important groundbreaker for women in so many fields. Using Grace as the narrator will make this book very accessible to any preteen girl.
My only wish is that the book described Earhart's flight across the Atlantic. I understand the authors wanted to build tension by making the reader wonder if Earhart successfully makes it to Europe, but perhaps after the news breaks that she has made it to Wales, the authors could have included some of Earhart's own words from the book she wrote about this exact flight. But otherwise, this is a very intriguing and interesting read for any fans of Amelia Earhart.
Highly recommended.
November 5, 2013
Told from the perspective of a fictional, young girl named Grace, this graphic novel/biography focuses on Amelia Earhart’s famous flight over the Atlantic Ocean in 1928. Grace is an aspiring reporter and looks up to Amelia Earhart’s determination and strong-will. Grace admires that Amelia Earhart wants to break barriers for women. Even though the interaction of Grace and Amelia are fictional, the reader learns about a more personable Amelia. The story discusses actual events such as the struggles to take off in Newfoundland and people who doubted Amelia would be successful.
The introduction by Eileen Collins supports that Amelia Earhart was inspiration for many women. The panel discussions at the end of the book give additional factual information about people and events that are discussed throughout the book. This graphic novel style biography was a unique way to read about an important historical figure. I think young adults will enjoy the comic format because it is an easy read, yet informative.
The introduction by Eileen Collins supports that Amelia Earhart was inspiration for many women. The panel discussions at the end of the book give additional factual information about people and events that are discussed throughout the book. This graphic novel style biography was a unique way to read about an important historical figure. I think young adults will enjoy the comic format because it is an easy read, yet informative.
November 3, 2013
It is always nice to read about Amelia Earhart. This graphic-novel makes very easy to read about Amelia's first flight across the Atlantic in 1928. Although this book only talk about that trip, it is underline perfectly Amelia's determination and strenght. Beautiful introduction by Eileen Collins, first female pilot of a Space Shuttle,where she highlight the great achievements of this woman, even "...in a time when women were expected to be something else..." and recognizes the deep influence that Amelia has had on her and on other women lives. That influence is also seen in Grace Goodland, a fiction character in the story, a girl reporter that follows the events for the Trepassey Herald.
In the back of the book is added historical information that is welcome. Also a bibliography and suggested readings, the only problem is you can't know exactly which is each one.
Nice illustrations in black, white and blue art on double-page spreads.
In the back of the book is added historical information that is welcome. Also a bibliography and suggested readings, the only problem is you can't know exactly which is each one.
Nice illustrations in black, white and blue art on double-page spreads.
December 21, 2010
Another great book from The Center for Cartoon Studies! The drawings were really great and the panels easy to follow (for an "every once in a while graphic novel reader). I also liked how they only used black and white and blue.
Choosing to focus solely on Earhart's first crossing of the Atlantic worked well. However, I feel like I've been engaging with a lot of media about her recently (like that movie with Hilary Swank? Yeah, I totally just watched that a few months ago), so it is hard for me to parse what I learned in this book from what I already knew about her or saw dramatized somewhere else (ahem, Hilary Swank movie). I may have to think about that some more and go back and give the book another look.
All in all, very engaging. I could see both kids who like graphic novels and kids who like Amelia Earhart or biographies getting into this one.
Choosing to focus solely on Earhart's first crossing of the Atlantic worked well. However, I feel like I've been engaging with a lot of media about her recently (like that movie with Hilary Swank? Yeah, I totally just watched that a few months ago), so it is hard for me to parse what I learned in this book from what I already knew about her or saw dramatized somewhere else (ahem, Hilary Swank movie). I may have to think about that some more and go back and give the book another look.
All in all, very engaging. I could see both kids who like graphic novels and kids who like Amelia Earhart or biographies getting into this one.
February 24, 2014
Likes: Nice graphic novel (simple black, white, and blue pictures which reminded me of the sky and ocean, which was cool) about Amelia Earhart, told from the POV of a young girl who is a budding journalist in Newfoundland and meets Amelia at the start of her first Atlantic crossing. Has a chapter in the back with background info to accompany the panels, as well as some suggested reading. Should appeal to teens, tweens, and older kids who are interested in Amelia and flying in general. Could also be a way to snag some kids who enjoy graphic novels but not history.
Dislikes: super short, could have used some more text and background info (I'm a public historian, I'm always going to want more background info), focused a little too much on young Grace the journalist as opposed to Amelia herself.
Dislikes: super short, could have used some more text and background info (I'm a public historian, I'm always going to want more background info), focused a little too much on young Grace the journalist as opposed to Amelia herself.
September 17, 2015
Interesting introduction to Amelia Earhart, told from the viewpoint of a young girl who is inspired by her. This same girl has aspirations to be a reporter and eagerly follows Amelia Earhart's career in flight. The end of the book is what both I found most interesting -- that is, I liked it and I didn't like it.
**Spoiler alert** ... Amelia Earhart's plane is lost at sea. The story is building and gaining momentum until her plane disappears and the book ends abruptly without explanation, just as abruptly as Earhart's life. I thought that was a very powerful and poignant way to end the book. What I didn't like is that the book was mostly about the girl, who's life does not end abruptly. What happens to her and her budding career? I think it is unfair to the character of Grace to end her story with Earhart's end.
**Spoiler alert** ... Amelia Earhart's plane is lost at sea. The story is building and gaining momentum until her plane disappears and the book ends abruptly without explanation, just as abruptly as Earhart's life. I thought that was a very powerful and poignant way to end the book. What I didn't like is that the book was mostly about the girl, who's life does not end abruptly. What happens to her and her budding career? I think it is unfair to the character of Grace to end her story with Earhart's end.
April 28, 2015
Amelia Earhart: This Broad Ocean by Sarah Stewart Taylor & Ben Towle takes place in the year 1928 in the town Trepassey with Amelia Earhart beginning to attempt her first flight around the Atlantic. A young reporter, Grace, encounters her one day while watching her row back from a failed attempt, instantly intrigued she beings to follow the story.
I really enjoyed this book, the art style was lovely and the monotone coloring was refreshing since a good amount of graphic novels I’ve read had many colors. The dialogue felt realistic and the story was quite nice. The only downside to this book is that it’s really short, I would recommend this book to anyone who’s looking for a short but enjoyable read.
I really enjoyed this book, the art style was lovely and the monotone coloring was refreshing since a good amount of graphic novels I’ve read had many colors. The dialogue felt realistic and the story was quite nice. The only downside to this book is that it’s really short, I would recommend this book to anyone who’s looking for a short but enjoyable read.
October 3, 2016
This graphic novel about Amelia Earhart will leave the reader wanting more, to go up in a plane themselves and accomplish a great feat. Amelia Earhart was the first woman to successfully cross the Atlantic Ocean, and she would have been the first woman to circle the globe, but her plane disappeared into thin air it seems. This story follows a young girl who lives in the town that Amelia started her journey across the Atlantic, and she is also the towns journalist. She is intrigued by Amelia and her determination. Ultimately, it leads to the girl following her dreams, and being well before her time. In an age where women weren't supposed to do anything, both these ladies defied the odds.
Best suited for 5-8. But a 3rd or 4the grader could definitely read it.
Best suited for 5-8. But a 3rd or 4the grader could definitely read it.
June 10, 2012
I thought this book was very good! It was educational as well as entertaining. I really liked how the main character Gracie was not afraid to be who she was even when everyone else was not as supportive of her choices. The recommended audience for this book would be children in grades second through sixth. This is a story about a strong woman, Amelia Earhart, who sets out achiever her goal no matter what anyone else said. I think that this is a great book for females beause it shows that females are able to anything even when people think they can't. This book is on the Will Eisner award nominees for 2011.
December 3, 2010
A beautifully drawn comic that focuses on one short episode in Earhart's life (the obstacles she experienced in Harbour Grace, Newfoundland before her successful transatlantic flight), intertwining her actual experiences with those of a fictional young girl in Harbour Grace who dreams of being a journalist. A quick but engaging read that will spark interest in Earhart's life & accomplishments among older children & younger teens. Historical notes at the end of the book flesh out the story and provide more details about Earhart's life and era.
February 1, 2011
An odd little blend of biography and storytelling as we get the story of Amelia Earhart's first crossing of the Atlantic Ocean from the perspective of a young girl living in the town where Earhart's flight is set to take off. As with other graphic novels from the Center for Cartoon Studies (Houdini: The Handcuff King, for example) the art is well executed in three colors: black, white, and blue.
March 19, 2012
Very interesting juvenile graphic novel biography of Amelia Earhart. Focuses on a very short period of Amelia's life -- her first trip across the atlantic, as a passenger. Yes, folks, in our not so distant history it was a big deal for a woman to RIDE across the Atlantic. Of course, not long before Amelia's time it was big deal for ANYONE to ride or fly across the atlantic. So let's not be too harsh in our judgements. Anyone, it's done its job in that now I want to learn more about Amelia Earhart.
July 16, 2010
Amelia Earhart is best known for being a pioneering pilot and for her disappearance during her quest to be the first woman to fly around the world. This book tells the story (in comics!) of Amelia's crossing of the Atlantic Ocean in 1928. Here we get to see her relentless ambition, tireless will, and love for adventure through the eyes of a little girl with equal spunk.
(96 pages)
(96 pages)
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