STAGGERWING

A revised edition of Wells’ 2010 aeronautical adventure novel, set in the mid-1930s during an exciting period of aviation design and technological development.

As the novel opens, 20-something Maggie Rockwell, an experienced horse rider, is preparing for a breathtaking stunt that she’s about to perform for a Hollywood movie. While racing on her horse, chased by Old West villains, she’s to escape by grabbing a ladder dangling from an airplane flown by her rescuer. Piloting the plane is Luke Whitney, a decorated World War I aviator, stunt pilot, and veteran of the aeronautical Bendix Trophy Race from New York to Los Angeles. He’s also been giving Maggie lessons in stunt flying, and she has her heart set on entering this year’s Bendix Race, which has just reopened to women, who were barred from the race for several years. Maggie is determined to win, but she needs money, a plane, and a sponsor. Meanwhile, Fernando Underwood, an aeronautical engineering student, stable manager, and polo instructor extraordinaire, is working at the racetrack near the film-shoot location. He’s a handsome, multitalented man of mystery who’s working to pay his way through college; before long, his and Maggie’s paths cross, and a romance ensues. Wells’ novel was inspired by the actual 1936 Bendix Trophy Race, which was won for the first time by two women (Louise Thaden and Blanche Wilcox Noyes). The relationship between Maggie and Fernando adds a tender, engaging touch to the proceedings. However, the novel’s main strength rests in the explicit descriptions of the new Staggerwing biplane that Maggie pilots during the race—a revolutionary design that positions the front end of the bottom wing ahead of the top. There are also spectacular depictions of life-threatening situations that Bendix Trophy competitors encounter, as well as a virtual primer on polo’s exciting aspects. However, Wells does tend to repeat information, such as Fernando’s backstory, and his prose is too often filled with superlatives: “Both of her greatest flying dreams were being fulfilled, and her joy and enthusiasm were boundless.” Still, aviation enthusiasts will appreciate the abundant aeronautical details.

An entertaining and informative work of historical fiction with a strong female protagonist.