We Own the Sky - Rodman Philbrick

Written by Rodman Philbrick
Read by Kirby Heyborne
Format: MP3
Bitrate: 64 Kbps
Unabridged

Publisher: Scholastic Inc.
Release date: September 6, 2022
Duration: 04:08:32

It’s Maine, 1924, and the Ku Klux Klan is on the rise.

Davy and Jo Michaud have been recently orphaned. Taken in by a distant relative-a famous aviator-they are now working with a group of stunt pilots who spend their time wing walking, leaping from plane to plane, and flying through fireworks! But though the stunts are dangerous, the real threat is building behind the scenes.

The KKK is on the rise in Maine that summer, inspired by the racial fears promoted in the movie, Birth of a Nation. They spew hatred of immigrants, Blacks, Jews, and French Catholics-that last, a rage that will be directed at Davy and Jo.

When Davy and Jo cross paths with the Klan, they get tangled up in a terrible revenge plan, and held as hostages. Can they escape with their lives?

“Philbrick’s latest historical fiction, set in 1920s Maine, is brought to life by the amazing Kirby Heyborne. Davy and his sister, Jo, orphaned by their mother’s death, are rescued for the summer by cousin Ruthie Reynard, a famous aviatrix who gives them jobs and a home in her flying circus. As delivered by Heyborne, 12-year-old Davy’s voice is nervous as he worries about his and his sister’s future and Jo’s dream of performing in the circus. Heyborne also captures Ruthie’s kindness as she gives the kids a home. The flying circus’s announcer bellows enthusiastically, building suspense for the amazing feats performed high in the sky. The voices of the KKK are hate-filled as they attack immigrants. The author’s note, narrated by Philbrick, gives important historical context to the story.”–Winner of AudioFile Earphones Award

Note–Very serious history. Some children may need preparation to understand what is happening.