After breaking records and becoming an international icon in the 1930s, Batten suddenly slipped out of view, disappearing to the Caribbean with her mother and eventually dying in obscurity in Majorca, buried in a pauper's grave.The compelling behind-the-scenes story of 'the Garbo of the skies' is a fascinating insight into the early days of flying, of mothers and daughters, fame and secrecy.

Advance reading copies available to reviewers and stores. Media mailing of advance reading copies to a wide range of book reviewers at national and local media, including trade journals, newspapers, magazines, websites, fan zones, literary blogs. Social media campaign to include blogs, contests and giveaways. Co- op available

About the Author
Fiona Kidman: Dame Fiona Kidman OBE has published over 25 books, including novels, poetry, non-fiction and a play. She is one of the most highly acclaimed writers in New Zealand.

Reviews

'A superbly written novel offering an intriguing interpretation of one of the world's greatest aviators, the glamorous and mysterious Jean Batten' History Woman Perspective

'A thrilling tale of adventure and heartbreak. Kidman has triumphantly brought this inspirational heroine to life' The Lady

'What a character arc Jean Batten's life offers. Her progress and regress, from literally soaring achievement to huddled isolation, from heroine to recluse, is the stuff of which novels should be made. So Fiona Kidman has made one ... It's a given that Kidman couldn't produce a poor paragraph if she tried to and this is a narrative that - I have to say it - takes wing' New Zealand Heral

'A sweeping saga of a fascinating life and an entertaining insight into the early days of aviation' Historical Novel Society

'A gripping historical read' Woman's Own

'Without any doubt, Fiona Kidman has written a riveting book about one of the world's greatest aviators, the glamorous and mysterious Jean Batten' Jacquie Webby, Oamaru Mail

'A fitting tribute to this lost heroine of the skies' Word by Word

'A fascinating read' Red Magazine

'Fiona Kidman has written a fantastic book about a legendary woman' With Love for Books

'Kidman's beautiful prose and textured characterisation help us experience the freedom of flight, the whoop of joy heard over the roar of cantankerous engines, the sheer miracle of breaking the bounds of gravity' Booksellers New Zealand

Book Information
ISBN 9781910709085
Author Fiona Kidman
Format Paperback
Page Count 336
Imprint Aardvark Bureau
Publisher Gallic Books
Weight(grams) 326g