Flying, in the early days, was dangerous. Really, really dangerous. It was also fun, and thrilling ... something new and different. Racing became extremely popular. So, of course, women were not expected, or allowed to participate. They were weak and fragile, after all, and certainly not smart enough. Hah! Fly Girls: How Five Daring Women Defied All Odds and Made Aviation History, by Keith O' Brien is the story of the women who chose to fly anyway. I agree with a review from the back cover, this is an exhilarating read.

There have other books about obituaries in my blog, but mobituaries: Great Lives Worth Reliving, by Mo Rocca and Jonathan Greenberg has an interesting twist. It's not just about people. There are entries for dragons, and fashion trends (think corset, codpiece), scientific ideas, characters from TV shows (like the older brother on Happy Days), even trees. There are people included as well, some you'll recognize, some you won't. Oddly, a nice way to spend an afternoon. :-)

Reading Hermit With Dog