World War I flying ace Eddie Rickenbacker's first attempt at flight was riding his bicycle off the roof while holding an umbrella! Growing up in the Midwest in the early 1900s, young Eddie, whose parents were Swiss immigrants, worked hard to help support his family but found time to build a "pushmobile," experience a thrilling ride in a "horseless carriage," and come face-to-face with a moving train.

Praised by parents, teachers, and historians, the Young Patriots Series is an ideal way to sweep today's young readers into history. The everyday details of family life, the time period in which they lived, what they wore, and the challenges they faced in school create a window through which children can access history. The early evidence of character, responsibility, ability, and courage showcase situations to which every child can relate.