Nobody Owns the Sky: The Story of "Brave Bessie" Coleman

Reeve Lindbergh

BookElementaryPilot

About

The story of Bessie Coleman becoming the first licensed African American aviator is sure to inspire readers to follow their own dreams.

As a young black woman in the 1920s, Bessie Coleman's chances of becoming a pilot were slim. But she never let her dream die and became the first licensed African-American aviator. Reeve Lindbergh honors her memory with a poem that sings of her accomplishment. With bold illustrations by Pamela Paparone, Nobody Owns the Sky will inspire readers to follow their dreams.

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Why it’s great

This beautifully told picture book celebrates Bessie Coleman, the first African American woman to earn a pilot’s license, and her unshakable belief that the sky belonged to everyone. With poetic language and gentle illustrations, it teaches children about bravery, perseverance, and breaking barriers. It’s a soaring tribute to chasing dreams that once seemed impossible.

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Resource Details

Resource Type: Book
Age Ranges: Elementary
Careers: Pilot
Subjects:

Book Details

Author: Reeve Lindbergh