cover image The Fabulous Flying Machines of Alberto Santos-Dumont

The Fabulous Flying Machines of Alberto Santos-Dumont

Victoria Griffith, illus. by Eva Montanari. Abrams, $16.95 (32p) ISBN 978-1-4197-0011-8

Although Santos-Dumont's successful lift-off in 1906 took place three years after the Wright Brothers' flight, the Brazilian inventor performed the first public flight in Europe. Griffith conveys both Santos-Dumont's fanciful nature (he commutes through Paris via his dirigible) and his vision for the future of flight, telling a haberdasher, "Once people are able to fly to different countries, they will see how much we have in common." Montanari's chalky illustrations are distinguished by a strong sense of motion, and the story's suspense (rival pilots! harrowing landings!) and surprise cameos (Louis Cartier!) make this an elegant tribute to a hero of early aviation. Ages 5%E2%80%939. (Sept.)