Fact can be so much more exciting than fiction, and this narrative account of Alcock and Brown's transatlantic flight has all the ingredients needed to make an exciting story. Shortly after the end of the First World War, intrepid flyers gather on the North American island of Newfoundland. Can it be possible - a non-stop across the Atlantic Ocean? When we look today at the flimsy machines made mostly from wood, fabric and wire, we marvel at the courage of these aviators, and that courage is superbly evoked in this dramatic story. Bringing together stories of John Alcock and Arthur Whitten Brown, seen as rank outsiders, and Maggie McRory, this shows the impact the flight had. It's a well-told story, full of drama and excitement. The book celebrates 100 years since this epic journey
* Parents in Touch *
An insightful and gripping story, this book expertly sets the atmosphere and tension perfectly. Detailed descriptions and explanations of the landscape, the flying machines and insight into the characters and personalities of the pilots themselves pull the reader along on an incredible, danger-filled journey of discovery and adventure. It is as if we are there and wondering why on earth anyone would even consider doing such a mad thing! Maggie's character is laid-out beautifully. We see a young, determined person attempting with all her might to escape the constraints of conventional thinking and all its' fears and those equally determined to keep her 'safe.' She shows us what it takes to move forward; how to be intrepid and strong in the face of a world that demands you not be these things. The relationships between all the characters, their particular gifts, talents and challenges, the interplay between the events that haunt them and the dream that makes them who they are, makes this a very human story. Celebrating the 100 year mark of Alcock and Browns' jaw-dropping flight, this book is amazing! Written by one of the very best authors in Ireland, this is historical fiction doing what it does best; bringing the past to life and seeing it with new eyes
* Fallen Star Stories *
I thought Race the Atlantic Wind was a terrific book. I particularly enjoy historical-fiction novels and this book really delivered. I loved learning about the planes and the excitement surrounding the dawn of the age of aviation. I loved how the author went back and forth between narrators, this allowed the reader to see Maggie's perspective on what life at home and work was like. You also got to see Alcock and Brown's point of view as you read about their tough trip across the Atlantic. Overall I thought that this book was a wonderful read. It was captivating from start to finish. I would definitely recommend it, even if you aren't interested in planes and flying. I really enjoyed this book and hope you will too - By Katelyn, 5th Class, St Brigid's N.S., Singland, Co. Limerick
* Seomra Ranga *
knowing the winners of this transatlantic race doesn't detract from the tension and excitement ... mixture of real characters and expertly imagined fictional ones
* Irish Examiner *
wonderful author ... really exciting, very pacey, it's great for a reader who's interested in history - CBI's Elaina Ryan
* Virgin's Ireland AM *
a good yarn, and that rare thing, a book that can be enjoyed by all ages ... an enjoyable read for anyone
* Tuam Herald *
highly accomplished ... highly readable ... a gripping read ... a thrilling true-life adventure
-- Irish Independent
This is a very well-written, exciting and detailed story from McGann. It's obvious he wanted to do the story justice and has done his research to ensure the story is as accurate as possible. As a teacher, I would find this a superb novel to use in the classroom ... There is a wide scope to integrate this novel into your classroom and is a story they will definitely enjoy!
* InTouch Magazine *
