LADY ICARUS Balloonmania and the Brief, Bold Life of Sophie Blanchard

Suzanne Toren's engaging narration style is the perfect choice for this fascinating biography of the world's first female professional aeronaut and the early history of hot-air and hydrogen ballooning. A brief introduction immerses the listener in the social and political turmoil of late-eighteenth-century France, setting the scene for the birth of the phenomenon known as balloonomania. Toren keeps the pace brisk, presenting the first balloonists and their daring deeds amid the historical and scientific revolutions of the day. With her unique voice and flawless French pronunciation, she conveys the captivating wonders and tragedies of ballooning--creating an educational and inspirational listen for middle graders and adults alike. Back matter includes an afterword and a timeline of events. S.A.A. © AudioFile 2022, Portland, Maine [Published: SEPTEMBER 2022]