I don’t know about you but when I was a young woman I thought the life of an airline stewardess was not only glamorous but a great way to travel the world. So when I was given the chance to read an early copy of COME FLY THE WORLD by Julia Cooke, I jumped.
COME FLY THE WORLD is a non fiction book about the early years of Pan Am World Airways.
“In a Mad Men-Era of commercial flight, Pan Am World Airways attracted the kind of young woman who wanted out, and wanted up. Required to have a college degree, speak two languages, and possess the political savvy of a Foreign Service officer, a jet-age stewardess serving on iconic Pan Am between 1966 and 1975 also had to be between 5’3″ and 5’9, between 105 and 140 pounds, and under 26 years old at the time of hire.” And that’s just the beginning.
So well researched. Cooke truly did her homework and then some. She interviewed amazing retired women who had flown the skies with Pan Am. Their stories shine through in this iconic book. Cooke’s father worked for Pan Am until she was nine. She’s long been wanting to write this book. She tells the story through the eyes of five woman, all stewardesses with Pan Am. All with fascinating journeys to convey.
Historic scenes and famous people abound in this book. Lots of behind the scene true adventures that these women experienced are brought finally to the forefront. They all deserve many accolades for their work.
Here in America we celebrate Women’s History Month in March. Let’s hear it for these amazing women who flew the skies from the beginning.
I had never given a whole lot of thought to all the tasks these stewardesses handled. Not only were they ambassadors for the United States, they performed all sorts of services. Being able to stir a perfect cocktail was just as important as scrambling eggs while in the air. Making passengers comfortable while assuring those first time fliers that all is well with just the right tone….so important for a smooth flight.
Oh how things have changed over the years for the airline industry. Now men are attendants, and people of color. Age requirements have been updated and marriage is not forbidden. Imagine the outrage of those old rules! They would never “Fly” now.
As I was reading the titles of the other books Julia Cooke has written, one title stood out. And I realized I had it on my shelves. THE OTHER SIDE OF PARADISE is a non fiction account of life in the new Cuba. Published in 2014, this is a great way to read about what it’s like in Cuba nowadays. I just love Cooke’s writing.
My stunning review copy of COME FLY THE WORLD arrived for review from Houghton Mifflin Harcourt in exchange for an honest review. Guys, this is so wonderful. I so enjoyed learning what it was truly like to fly the skies through the honest eyes of the very women who did the flying. Opened the skies to the future. Loved the book!
Copperfish Books has copies of COME FLY THE WORLD on their shelves right this minute. They are new hardcovers and are discounted 20%. You can also purchase a digital copy or even audio if that is your reading preference. Don’t miss this one. You will enjoy every minute of it!
Maurice on Books 
I think there was a TV show based on the Pan Am women. This sounds fascinating. I love the Mad Men era too. And that cover! What fun!
It was fun to read. Took me way back in time which these days can be a good thing. The writing is so darn good.