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American Flygirl
One of WWII’s most uniquely hidden figures, Hazel Ying Lee was the first Asian American woman to earn a pilot’s license, join the WASPs, and fly for the United States military amid widespread anti-Asian sentiment and policies.
Her singular story of patriotism, barrier breaking, and fearless sacrifice is told for the first time in full for readers of The Women with Silver Wings by Katherine Sharp Landdeck, A Woman of No Importance by Sonia Purnell, The Last Boat Out of Shanghai by Helen Zia, Facing the Mountain by Daniel James Brown and all Asian American, women’s and WWII history books.
In 1932, Hazel Ying Lee, a nineteen-year-old American daughter of Chinese immigrants, sat in on a friend’s flight lesson. It changed her life. In less than a year, a girl with a wicked sense of humor, a newfound love of flying, and a tough can-do attitude earned her pilot’s license and headed for China to help against invading Japanese forces. In time, Hazel would become the first Asian American to fly with the Women Airforce Service Pilots. As thrilling as it may have been, it wasn’t easy.
In America, Hazel felt the oppression and discrimination of the Chinese Exclusion Act. In China’s field of male-dominated aviation she was dismissed for being a woman, and for being an American. But in service to her country, Hazel refused to be limited by gender, race, and impossible dreams. Frustrated but undeterred she forged ahead, married Clifford Louie, a devoted and unconventional husband who cheered his wife on, and gave her all for the cause achieving more in her short remarkable life than even she imagined possible.
American Flygirl is the untold account of a spirted fighter and an indomitable hidden figure in American history. She broke every common belief about women. She challenged every social restriction to endure and to succeed. And against seemingly insurmountable obstacles, Hazel Ying Lee reached for the skies and made her mark as a universal and unsung hero whose time has come.
Her singular story of patriotism, barrier breaking, and fearless sacrifice is told for the first time in full for readers of The Women with Silver Wings by Katherine Sharp Landdeck, A Woman of No Importance by Sonia Purnell, The Last Boat Out of Shanghai by Helen Zia, Facing the Mountain by Daniel James Brown and all Asian American, women’s and WWII history books.
In 1932, Hazel Ying Lee, a nineteen-year-old American daughter of Chinese immigrants, sat in on a friend’s flight lesson. It changed her life. In less than a year, a girl with a wicked sense of humor, a newfound love of flying, and a tough can-do attitude earned her pilot’s license and headed for China to help against invading Japanese forces. In time, Hazel would become the first Asian American to fly with the Women Airforce Service Pilots. As thrilling as it may have been, it wasn’t easy.
In America, Hazel felt the oppression and discrimination of the Chinese Exclusion Act. In China’s field of male-dominated aviation she was dismissed for being a woman, and for being an American. But in service to her country, Hazel refused to be limited by gender, race, and impossible dreams. Frustrated but undeterred she forged ahead, married Clifford Louie, a devoted and unconventional husband who cheered his wife on, and gave her all for the cause achieving more in her short remarkable life than even she imagined possible.
American Flygirl is the untold account of a spirted fighter and an indomitable hidden figure in American history. She broke every common belief about women. She challenged every social restriction to endure and to succeed. And against seemingly insurmountable obstacles, Hazel Ying Lee reached for the skies and made her mark as a universal and unsung hero whose time has come.
272 pages, Hardcover
Published April 23, 2024
67 people are currently reading
4192 people want to read
About the author
Susan Tate Ankeny
2 books46 followersSusan is a former-teacher-turned writer who lives in the Pacific Northwest. She is a member of the 8th Air Force Historical Society, the Air Force Escape and Evasion Society, and the Association des Sauveteurs d'Aviateurs Alliés. When not reading and writing, she enjoys hiking, travel, and British baking. The Girl and the Bombardier is her first book.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 96 reviews
November 22, 2023
'In the sky, she wasn't Chinese or American, man or woman, visible or invisible...she was just herself. In the sky, she felt limitless'.
In 1932, Hazel Lee was the first Chinese American woman in the USA to earn her pilot's license. Driven purely by a love to fly, she fought the quagmire of legalities, racism, and misogynistic attitudes to fly planes. Her first opportunity was, bizarrely, talking herself into a programme that trained Chinese American men to fly in order to join the Chinese Airforce to fight the Japanese invasion. Soon though, the call was to return to American soil and help with their WW2 effort by becoming a WASP. Despite all of the rigorous training and daring feats performed by herself, and increasingly more women pilots, the wall of gender bias continued to shadow the women's aviation contribution to the war effort. 'American Flygirl' turns on the spotlight.
I learned a lot from reading this book. Not simply about the feats of Hazel, nor the tour de force of women's aviation in WW2, but a wider history of the war and the Japanese invasion of China. Anyone who is interested in women's history, especially their contribution to WW2 is bound to enjoy it.
In 1932, Hazel Lee was the first Chinese American woman in the USA to earn her pilot's license. Driven purely by a love to fly, she fought the quagmire of legalities, racism, and misogynistic attitudes to fly planes. Her first opportunity was, bizarrely, talking herself into a programme that trained Chinese American men to fly in order to join the Chinese Airforce to fight the Japanese invasion. Soon though, the call was to return to American soil and help with their WW2 effort by becoming a WASP. Despite all of the rigorous training and daring feats performed by herself, and increasingly more women pilots, the wall of gender bias continued to shadow the women's aviation contribution to the war effort. 'American Flygirl' turns on the spotlight.
I learned a lot from reading this book. Not simply about the feats of Hazel, nor the tour de force of women's aviation in WW2, but a wider history of the war and the Japanese invasion of China. Anyone who is interested in women's history, especially their contribution to WW2 is bound to enjoy it.
June 14, 2024
I love when I stumble across a book that can teach me something I didn’t know about history. I had no idea about the WASPs and what they went through to not only achieve equality (and I do appreciate their efforts a lot as a woman) but to fight for their country. I was both pleased and surprised to realize that Hazel was from Portland since I live just outside the city and am a born and bread Oregonian. It was super cool to learn that the first Chinese American licensed pilot came from Portland and I loved Hazel and am so glad she got some recognition in this book since I had previously not heard of her. When I reached the photos there was a bit of a spoiler for me in finding the last photo taken of her. And while I wish she had a more positive outcome, I am still grateful for knowing about her story and struggles. This book was a quick read for me and despite being non-fiction (Which I sometimes think can be a little dry) it was the kind of book I didn’t want to put down. Overall I gave it 4.5 stars rounded up because such an innovator for women’s equality deserves all the stars.
January 12, 2024
If there is one thing for sure after reading Susan Tate Ankeny's American Flygirl, it's that Hazel Ying Lee deserves this book written about her. Hazel was the first Asian American women to earn a pilot's license and would ultimately end up becoming a WASP in World War II. Hazel had an amazing life and I am glad to get acquainted with her.
Ankeny is a good writer and the story is a good one. Unfortunately, it very much seems like there was not a lot of material for Ankeny to pull from. This is a relatively short biography, but even then, there are a lot of side characters throughout. It sometimes feels like Hazel takes a backseat to other people. While Ankeny seems like a good author (and I am interested in her previous book after reading this one), I definitely felt like this book was padded because not enough of Hazel's life was documented. This would probably have been much better if it was historical fiction and Ankeny could let her imagination fill in the gaps.
(This book was provided as an advanced copy by Netgalley and Kensington Books.)
Ankeny is a good writer and the story is a good one. Unfortunately, it very much seems like there was not a lot of material for Ankeny to pull from. This is a relatively short biography, but even then, there are a lot of side characters throughout. It sometimes feels like Hazel takes a backseat to other people. While Ankeny seems like a good author (and I am interested in her previous book after reading this one), I definitely felt like this book was padded because not enough of Hazel's life was documented. This would probably have been much better if it was historical fiction and Ankeny could let her imagination fill in the gaps.
(This book was provided as an advanced copy by Netgalley and Kensington Books.)
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April 14, 2025
Every book I read about the WASPs of WWII makes me more and more in awe of just the incredible, collective feat of endurance these women achieved in the span of a few short years.
Whereas military men were expected to be experts at flying one aircraft platform, WASPs were expected to be able to know, fly and be familiar with over 70—and often they were the first people stepping into the cockpit of unfamiliar and untested aircraft, expected to fly these often mechanically faulty planes cross-country to their final destination. They also did a whole bunch of other really wild and dangerous things, like tow aerial targets and act as pursuit planes for fighter pilots. And they were expected to always smile and never complain, lest their male counterparts think they were weak or girlish.
Anywho, learning about Hazel Ying Lee, the first Asian American Woman to join the WASPs and fly for the US military, was a revelation. She was just an incredible person all around, and her death was so tragic and so unbelievably preventable.
Definitely a must-read for WWII buffs and readers of military history in general.
Whereas military men were expected to be experts at flying one aircraft platform, WASPs were expected to be able to know, fly and be familiar with over 70—and often they were the first people stepping into the cockpit of unfamiliar and untested aircraft, expected to fly these often mechanically faulty planes cross-country to their final destination. They also did a whole bunch of other really wild and dangerous things, like tow aerial targets and act as pursuit planes for fighter pilots. And they were expected to always smile and never complain, lest their male counterparts think they were weak or girlish.
Anywho, learning about Hazel Ying Lee, the first Asian American Woman to join the WASPs and fly for the US military, was a revelation. She was just an incredible person all around, and her death was so tragic and so unbelievably preventable.
Definitely a must-read for WWII buffs and readers of military history in general.
May 9, 2024
This book is simply stunning and perfect read for history buffs.
2024
October 3, 2025Memoir March TBR
📱 Thank you to NetGalley and Citadel
📱 Thank you to NetGalley and Citadel
May 16, 2024
I just finished American flygirl by susan Tate Ankeny - the true story Hazel Ying Lee, who followed her dream against all the odds - and became an American hero.
In 1932 Hazel Ying Lee, 19 year old American daughter of Chinese immigrants, sat in on her friends flying lesson… it launched a legend…
Hazel became obsessed with flying. She became the first Asian American to fly with the women’s airforce service pilots.
She literally challenged every single social restriction to become an amazing pilot. Being a woman, Asian but born in American, the stack was already stacked against her but she did not give up and this woman, who I had never heard of until now, is an unsung hero and I am so glad I got to read this amazing book all about her.
She had a great sense of humor, naturally kind and spirited. I am in awe! If you haven’t heard of her, grab this book and submerge yourself in excellence.
5 stars.
Thank you @kensingtonbooks for my gifted copy!
#americanflygirl #susantateankeny #hazelyinglee #historicalwoman #nonfiction #biography #bookreview #readersofig #igreads #igbooks #bookish
October 23, 2024
American Flygirl” by Susan Tate Ankeny is a captivating memoir that delves into the life of Hazel Ying Lee, one of the first Chinese-American women to fly for the U.S. military during World War II. This book not only highlights Hazel's personal journey but also paints a broader picture of the Women Airforce Service Pilots (WASP) and their pivotal role in aviation history. Ankeny masterfully weaves Hazel's story with the larger narrative of women in aviation, providing a rich tapestry of historical context. Hazel Ying Lee emerges as a trailblazer who defied gender and racial stereotypes at a time when societal norms were heavily restrictive. Her journey from aspiring pilot to a key figure in the WASP program is both inspiring and enlightening. Ankeny’s portrayal of Lee is one of warmth, strength, and courage, capturing her indomitable spirit and her ability to transcend barriers that many thought insurmountable. The book also sheds light on the challenges faced by WASPs, including prejudice from male counterparts who were often resentful of women's entry into wartime aviation. Despite these adversities, Hazel and her fellow WASPs displayed remarkable resilience and dedication, making significant contributions to the war effort. Ankeny's detailed research brings to life not only Hazel's experiences but also those of her companions, offering readers a comprehensive understanding of the era's social dynamics. Ankeny’s writing is both informative and engaging, making “American Flygirl” a compelling read for anyone interested in aviation history, women's rights, or World War II. The narrative is infused with historical minutiae that enrich the story without overwhelming it. The author’s passion for her subject shines through, making this memoir not just a recounting of events but a tribute to the women who changed the course of aviation history. In sum, “American Flygirl” is an inspiring testament to Hazel Ying Lee’s legacy and the enduring impact of the WASPs. It is a must-read for those who appreciate stories of courage and perseverance against all odds.
September 23, 2024
2.5/5 E arc from NetGalley
I was excited to get an ARC of this book because I do have a special interest in women during WW2. However, this book left me a little disappointed.
For starters, the tone of the book felt like the author couldn’t decide between a historical fiction or a nonfiction tale about Hazel Ying Lee. While other aspects of the book, the history of the WASPs, US flying culture, and WW2, were written like a proper non-fiction, anything about Hazel felt like the author started this book as a historical fiction novel before becoming more objective about the history of Hazel and the WASPs
That leads to my second point, which is this book felt more like a history of the WASPs with Hazel as our guide vs a historical account about Hazel. While I enjoyed learning about Hazel, I think this book would’ve been better if it was strictly about the WASPs with more information about the other women who worked with Hazel.
I do think this book is very important to the historiography of WW2. Women like Hazel aren’t as deeply studied or mentioned in other books about WW2 and this book is a great introduction to both the history of the WASPs and non-white servicemen during WW2
I was excited to get an ARC of this book because I do have a special interest in women during WW2. However, this book left me a little disappointed.
For starters, the tone of the book felt like the author couldn’t decide between a historical fiction or a nonfiction tale about Hazel Ying Lee. While other aspects of the book, the history of the WASPs, US flying culture, and WW2, were written like a proper non-fiction, anything about Hazel felt like the author started this book as a historical fiction novel before becoming more objective about the history of Hazel and the WASPs
That leads to my second point, which is this book felt more like a history of the WASPs with Hazel as our guide vs a historical account about Hazel. While I enjoyed learning about Hazel, I think this book would’ve been better if it was strictly about the WASPs with more information about the other women who worked with Hazel.
I do think this book is very important to the historiography of WW2. Women like Hazel aren’t as deeply studied or mentioned in other books about WW2 and this book is a great introduction to both the history of the WASPs and non-white servicemen during WW2
March 23, 2024
Hazel Ying Lee was the first Asian American to earn a pilot's license and join the WASPs. This book told of Hazel's love of flying from a very young age. It also told of the many courageous women that advanced the war efforts by freeing male pilots to move to the front in WWII.
Prior to this book, I had never heard of Hazel Ying Lee. I found myself totally engrossed in her story. This book read beautifully. It made me feel many emotions. I was angry, I was sad, I even laughed at times, I wish that I had the passion for anything as much as Hazel did for flying! These women were total baddies!!
The author stated, " I am no longer the same person I was when I began writing Hazel's story" And, I would have to agree. I am no longer the same person after reading her story. I will think of Hazel and her courageous friends for many days.
Thank you to Netgalley and Kensington books for this advanced copy in exchange for my honest review.
Prior to this book, I had never heard of Hazel Ying Lee. I found myself totally engrossed in her story. This book read beautifully. It made me feel many emotions. I was angry, I was sad, I even laughed at times, I wish that I had the passion for anything as much as Hazel did for flying! These women were total baddies!!
The author stated, " I am no longer the same person I was when I began writing Hazel's story" And, I would have to agree. I am no longer the same person after reading her story. I will think of Hazel and her courageous friends for many days.
Thank you to Netgalley and Kensington books for this advanced copy in exchange for my honest review.
March 13, 2024
Oh, a WASP! Sweetwater isn’t too far from me (in Texas terms), and as someone who loves aviation, I have always been fascinated by the WASPs. Like so many stories, women are forgotten about…there was no way women flew…well we sent all the men to war, so who else would fly here?? People know about Earhart but fail to remember she wasn’t the only woman pilot.
American Flygirl shares the story of Hazel Ying Lee, a nineteen-year-old American daughter of Chinese immigrants who grew up during exclusion laws. She helped break multiple barriers for women and Chinese in a time of war. Thank you, Susan Tate Ankeny, for sharing Hazel Ying Lee’s story. She is a hero and we need to hear more about her.
Thank you, NetGalley and Kensington Books, for an advanced copy.
American Flygirl shares the story of Hazel Ying Lee, a nineteen-year-old American daughter of Chinese immigrants who grew up during exclusion laws. She helped break multiple barriers for women and Chinese in a time of war. Thank you, Susan Tate Ankeny, for sharing Hazel Ying Lee’s story. She is a hero and we need to hear more about her.
Thank you, NetGalley and Kensington Books, for an advanced copy.
March 29, 2025
I picked up this book at the Oregon Historical Museum Book sale with authors in attendance. I was able to get the book signed by author, Susan Tate Ankeny. This is a biography about Hazel Ying Lee, an American Fly girl from Portland, Oregon. I loved this book for three reasons: 1) it is about an amazing brave woman, 2) She is from Portland Oregon where I now live 3) it is a book on history of a before her time, Macho woman.
Hazel gained flying experience when she answered a call to train Chinese flyers in their war with Japan. A war where the heroine Hazel Lee was able to fly in, regardless of being a woman. US women during WWII were not allowed to fly active duty for the US due to the misogynistic nature of white man America. Hazel the American Flygirl shuttled aircraft only during WWII, freeing men to fly in active duty. Many times shuttling untested aircraft to testing facilities before being released to front line. Unfortunately she died during an unfortunate accident, never getting recognition as an American hero, as she would have if being a man.
I read American Flygirl during my travels to the arctic circle. There I met other US citizens, Vincent and his wife Regine. During our breakfasts together as members of the same tour group Vincent shared his story. Originally from China, Vincent as a child, and his family moved to Malaysia due to the political unrest in China. In Malaysia, Vincent's family were unwelcome and violence against Chinese pursued. Escaping with his family to the airport for safety, Vincent said he met his Pan Am Angels. A PanAm plane allowed his family to board without tickets and sit on floor for a plane to Hong Kong. A big man gave up his seat to allow Vincent's mother to sit and this big angel sat and played with Vincent, on the floor for the duration of the flight. The next week safely in Hong Kong, Vincent's family heard many of their Chinese neighbors in Malaysia were shot.
As much as I appreciated American Flygirl I appreciated Vincent first hand account of hate. I gave my signed copy of American Flygirl to Vincent, because I thought he could relate to Hazel Lee. Vincent explained that stories of hate is in Man's nature, to group people and prejudice into groups. We need more stories told of injustices so people can learn from it. We need books, libraries and historical societies to tell these stories.
Hazel gained flying experience when she answered a call to train Chinese flyers in their war with Japan. A war where the heroine Hazel Lee was able to fly in, regardless of being a woman. US women during WWII were not allowed to fly active duty for the US due to the misogynistic nature of white man America. Hazel the American Flygirl shuttled aircraft only during WWII, freeing men to fly in active duty. Many times shuttling untested aircraft to testing facilities before being released to front line. Unfortunately she died during an unfortunate accident, never getting recognition as an American hero, as she would have if being a man.
I read American Flygirl during my travels to the arctic circle. There I met other US citizens, Vincent and his wife Regine. During our breakfasts together as members of the same tour group Vincent shared his story. Originally from China, Vincent as a child, and his family moved to Malaysia due to the political unrest in China. In Malaysia, Vincent's family were unwelcome and violence against Chinese pursued. Escaping with his family to the airport for safety, Vincent said he met his Pan Am Angels. A PanAm plane allowed his family to board without tickets and sit on floor for a plane to Hong Kong. A big man gave up his seat to allow Vincent's mother to sit and this big angel sat and played with Vincent, on the floor for the duration of the flight. The next week safely in Hong Kong, Vincent's family heard many of their Chinese neighbors in Malaysia were shot.
As much as I appreciated American Flygirl I appreciated Vincent first hand account of hate. I gave my signed copy of American Flygirl to Vincent, because I thought he could relate to Hazel Lee. Vincent explained that stories of hate is in Man's nature, to group people and prejudice into groups. We need more stories told of injustices so people can learn from it. We need books, libraries and historical societies to tell these stories.
January 12, 2025
Hazel Ying Lee was the first Asian American woman to earn her pilots license, join the WASPs and fly for the United States military during times of strong anti-Asian sentiment. American Fly Girl tells Hazel’s story as well as those women who were training right along side her. These women were doing ground breaking work in a man dominated world and were not afraid to back down from a challenge even when the odds were against them.
Before reading this book I knew next to nothing about the WASPs or what it took for women to train to be pilots back during WWII. This book gave a great insight into those times and their struggles as well as highlighting the life of Hazel Ying Lee who was facing outside challenges of her own. I thought this was a well put together and researched book that gave a lot of information about the topic. Hazel and the other women in this book are inspirational and it was interesting learning about their stories. There were parts of this book that drug on for me, but that’s the nature of nonfiction in my opinion. Overall this was a good, informative book that taught me about a time and people I hadn’t known about before. If you are interested in women’s history I think this would be a good read for you. I’m glad I took the time to read this book and appreciate the knowledge it gave me.
Before reading this book I knew next to nothing about the WASPs or what it took for women to train to be pilots back during WWII. This book gave a great insight into those times and their struggles as well as highlighting the life of Hazel Ying Lee who was facing outside challenges of her own. I thought this was a well put together and researched book that gave a lot of information about the topic. Hazel and the other women in this book are inspirational and it was interesting learning about their stories. There were parts of this book that drug on for me, but that’s the nature of nonfiction in my opinion. Overall this was a good, informative book that taught me about a time and people I hadn’t known about before. If you are interested in women’s history I think this would be a good read for you. I’m glad I took the time to read this book and appreciate the knowledge it gave me.
June 30, 2024
Thank you Kensington Books and Susan Tate Ankey, I really enjoyed this book.
American Flygirl shares the story of Hazel Ying Lee. Hazel helped to break many barriers for women and Chinese during World War II. This book not only provided insight into Hazel's life, training, and friendships, but also provided a history of women aviators in America. I learned a lot about the WASPs and can't wait to learn more about them. What brave, tough women!
American Flygirl shares the story of Hazel Ying Lee. Hazel helped to break many barriers for women and Chinese during World War II. This book not only provided insight into Hazel's life, training, and friendships, but also provided a history of women aviators in America. I learned a lot about the WASPs and can't wait to learn more about them. What brave, tough women!
September 27, 2024
"American Flygirl" by Susan Tate Ankeny provides a detailed examination of Hazel Ying Lee's life, a young woman who aspired to fly. The book addresses the sexist and racial prejudices Hazel faced in her quest to become a pilot in the 1930s. Although the chronology can be non-linear and the information dense, it offers a significant glimpse into the life of an overlooked heroine.
Thanks to the author and Kensington publishing for the ARC copy of this book.
Thanks to the author and Kensington publishing for the ARC copy of this book.
April 20, 2024
Hazel Ying Lee was born to fly. In 1932, the 19 year old American daughter of Chinese immigrants set out to become a pilot, inspired by Amelia Earhart to follow her dream. After becoming the first Chinese-American female pilot in the country, Hazel went to China with hopes of flying for her parents' home country against the invading Japanese, only to find her role significantly limited due to being a woman. Upon returning to the United States, Hazel jumped at the chance to sign-up for the program that would eventually become known as the WASPs, women pilots who were responsible for transporting aircraft across the country in support of the war effort during WWII.
Though Hazel is the main focus of the book, the story of the WASP program -from hopeful beginning to bitter end- is told, as well as the stories of several women with whom Hazel served. The women faced discrimination from the military they were helping as well as their fellow male pilots despite the fact that the women had better safety records and were more willing to fly in questionable airplanes. They had the guts and determination to do what they loved no matter the cost.
Despite the obstacles of discrimination and racism throughout her life, Hazel lived fearlessly. The book does a wonderful job of telling her story and capturing the woman on the page. I felt like I got to know Hazel, which made the end even more heartbreaking. Inspiring, funny, infuriating, and sweet, it's a great read about a remarkable woman.
Thanks to Kensington Publishing and NetGalley for this advance copy.
Though Hazel is the main focus of the book, the story of the WASP program -from hopeful beginning to bitter end- is told, as well as the stories of several women with whom Hazel served. The women faced discrimination from the military they were helping as well as their fellow male pilots despite the fact that the women had better safety records and were more willing to fly in questionable airplanes. They had the guts and determination to do what they loved no matter the cost.
Despite the obstacles of discrimination and racism throughout her life, Hazel lived fearlessly. The book does a wonderful job of telling her story and capturing the woman on the page. I felt like I got to know Hazel, which made the end even more heartbreaking. Inspiring, funny, infuriating, and sweet, it's a great read about a remarkable woman.
Thanks to Kensington Publishing and NetGalley for this advance copy.
July 5, 2025
Oh, Hazel. You deserved better and your story made me cry.
Fellow readers, you need to know her name, and all she accomplished as the first Asian American woman to fly with WASP while continuously hitting brick walls of prejudice, both as a Chinese American and as a woman.
Susan Tate Ankeny, you DID do her story justice. Thank you for writing it down.
Thank you, Partner @bibliolifestyle @kensingtonbooks for my copy. All opinions are my own.
Fellow readers, you need to know her name, and all she accomplished as the first Asian American woman to fly with WASP while continuously hitting brick walls of prejudice, both as a Chinese American and as a woman.
Susan Tate Ankeny, you DID do her story justice. Thank you for writing it down.
Thank you, Partner @bibliolifestyle @kensingtonbooks for my copy. All opinions are my own.
April 8, 2024
American Flygirl, by Oregon-based author Susan Tate Ankeny, tells the true story of Hazel Ying Lee (1912-1944), the first Chinese-American woman to fly for the United States military. She was also the first Asian American woman to earn a pilot's licence and to join the renowned Women Airforce Service Pilots (WASPs).
Lee was trained by the famed aviator Al Greenwood at the Chinese Flying Club of Portland, a flying school founded in 1932 in response to Japan's invasion of Manchuria. Having gained her pilot's license that year, Lee went to China with the goal of joining the Chinese Air Force, but was rejected as a woman. She was forced to fly for a private airline.
Lee was in Canton (today's Guangzhou) when it was captured by the Japanese in late 1939. Having returned to America via Hong Kong, she joined the Women's Flying Training Detachment (WFTD) in 1943, which later became the WASPs. In 1944, she was among the first women pilots to fly “Pursuit” or fighter aircraft for the United States military.
Lee's story is both informative and inspiring. To serve her country and ancestral land, she broke every common stereotype and challenged every social restriction on the basis of gender and ethnicity. “She experienced a surge of empowerment when flying solo. No one could tell her what to do or how to do it. It didn't matter whether she was man or woman, white or Asian. She was in control of her fate.”
Furthermore, American Flygirl is a valuable book for readers who are interested in the history of women aviators in America. It is clear that the author is passionate and highly knowledgeable in this regard, including the life stories of Amelia Earhart and Jackie Cochran and especially members of the WASPs.
Indeed, the author's voice is confident, fluent and distinct, and at times witty and assertive, when writing about this history, demonstrating a broad knowledge of the political and social contexts, as well as the individual achievements, key events, and the numerous aircraft makes and models involved.
In sharp contrast, the author appears to have limited knowledge of modern Chinese history and the history of Chinese diaspora in America. When writing about this history, her observations seem limited and superficial, drawing on archival research and brief, fanciful imagination whose results are used to fill the gaps between what she does know and love.
In fact, the author's concerns with the plight of Chinese Americans – and Chinese American women in particular – are generic and generalised, lacking depth, and borrowed from secondhand accounts of the lived experiences of early generations of Chinese Americans. It may be suggested that, without the tumultuous events in China in the first half of the 20th century as a setting, it is unlikely that her portrayal of Lee would have been any different if Lee was an American woman of Japanese, Korean, Italian, Spanish or even African background.
In other words, it seems that Lee is the subject of this book more because she was a woman than she was a Chinese American woman. Specifically, the author's admiration and advocacy for the WASPs and other women aviators is so prominent that perhaps the book should be retitled as “American Flygirls”, as if Lee's story is just a lead-in to the much greater and grander and certainly more glamorous stories of the WASPs and other women aviators in America.
This may sound harsh, as due credits should be given to the author who has done extensive research and shed considerable light on the involvement of Chinese American pilots both before and throughout China's war against Japan. The contributions of this small community is worth preserving, a crucial chapter in the history of Chinese diaspora in America, and deserves to be known by a wider audience in both the English-speaking and Chinese-speaking worlds.
It is hoped that this book, together with the archival resources that have inspired its writing, can lead to further research in the history of Chinese Americans by #OwnVoices scholars and authors.
Meanwhile, the book can benefit from further proofreading in order to remove the many typos, grammar and punctuation errors, and awkward sentences. Any experienced editor can amend obvious mistakes such as the description that Hazel's father immigrated to Portland in 1880 while fleeing China “after fighting broke out between the Nationalists and the Communists”. Another unforgivable mistake is to refer to Chiang Kai-Shek as “General Kai-Shek”.
Other minor issues include the doubtful presence of the Red Cross workers in Canton and the overall South China in 1938, and the lack of citations of many bold statements in the book, such as the reception of Robert McCawley Short in China. It would also be nice to have relevant archival images and other documentation displayed in the book.
Finally, the paragraphs describing Clifford Louie's and Arthur Chin's careers are overly simplified. In Louie's case, while it is obvious that some details are taken straight from Wikipedia, it is intriguing that only those of his experiences outside of China are mentioned. Could this be another indicator that the book was written for mainstream American readers, instead of Chinese American readers and even Chinese readers?
Note: This book review is based on a digital copy of American Flygirl supplied by the book's publisher via NetGalley.
Lee was trained by the famed aviator Al Greenwood at the Chinese Flying Club of Portland, a flying school founded in 1932 in response to Japan's invasion of Manchuria. Having gained her pilot's license that year, Lee went to China with the goal of joining the Chinese Air Force, but was rejected as a woman. She was forced to fly for a private airline.
Lee was in Canton (today's Guangzhou) when it was captured by the Japanese in late 1939. Having returned to America via Hong Kong, she joined the Women's Flying Training Detachment (WFTD) in 1943, which later became the WASPs. In 1944, she was among the first women pilots to fly “Pursuit” or fighter aircraft for the United States military.
Lee's story is both informative and inspiring. To serve her country and ancestral land, she broke every common stereotype and challenged every social restriction on the basis of gender and ethnicity. “She experienced a surge of empowerment when flying solo. No one could tell her what to do or how to do it. It didn't matter whether she was man or woman, white or Asian. She was in control of her fate.”
Furthermore, American Flygirl is a valuable book for readers who are interested in the history of women aviators in America. It is clear that the author is passionate and highly knowledgeable in this regard, including the life stories of Amelia Earhart and Jackie Cochran and especially members of the WASPs.
Indeed, the author's voice is confident, fluent and distinct, and at times witty and assertive, when writing about this history, demonstrating a broad knowledge of the political and social contexts, as well as the individual achievements, key events, and the numerous aircraft makes and models involved.
In sharp contrast, the author appears to have limited knowledge of modern Chinese history and the history of Chinese diaspora in America. When writing about this history, her observations seem limited and superficial, drawing on archival research and brief, fanciful imagination whose results are used to fill the gaps between what she does know and love.
In fact, the author's concerns with the plight of Chinese Americans – and Chinese American women in particular – are generic and generalised, lacking depth, and borrowed from secondhand accounts of the lived experiences of early generations of Chinese Americans. It may be suggested that, without the tumultuous events in China in the first half of the 20th century as a setting, it is unlikely that her portrayal of Lee would have been any different if Lee was an American woman of Japanese, Korean, Italian, Spanish or even African background.
In other words, it seems that Lee is the subject of this book more because she was a woman than she was a Chinese American woman. Specifically, the author's admiration and advocacy for the WASPs and other women aviators is so prominent that perhaps the book should be retitled as “American Flygirls”, as if Lee's story is just a lead-in to the much greater and grander and certainly more glamorous stories of the WASPs and other women aviators in America.
This may sound harsh, as due credits should be given to the author who has done extensive research and shed considerable light on the involvement of Chinese American pilots both before and throughout China's war against Japan. The contributions of this small community is worth preserving, a crucial chapter in the history of Chinese diaspora in America, and deserves to be known by a wider audience in both the English-speaking and Chinese-speaking worlds.
It is hoped that this book, together with the archival resources that have inspired its writing, can lead to further research in the history of Chinese Americans by #OwnVoices scholars and authors.
Meanwhile, the book can benefit from further proofreading in order to remove the many typos, grammar and punctuation errors, and awkward sentences. Any experienced editor can amend obvious mistakes such as the description that Hazel's father immigrated to Portland in 1880 while fleeing China “after fighting broke out between the Nationalists and the Communists”. Another unforgivable mistake is to refer to Chiang Kai-Shek as “General Kai-Shek”.
Other minor issues include the doubtful presence of the Red Cross workers in Canton and the overall South China in 1938, and the lack of citations of many bold statements in the book, such as the reception of Robert McCawley Short in China. It would also be nice to have relevant archival images and other documentation displayed in the book.
Finally, the paragraphs describing Clifford Louie's and Arthur Chin's careers are overly simplified. In Louie's case, while it is obvious that some details are taken straight from Wikipedia, it is intriguing that only those of his experiences outside of China are mentioned. Could this be another indicator that the book was written for mainstream American readers, instead of Chinese American readers and even Chinese readers?
Note: This book review is based on a digital copy of American Flygirl supplied by the book's publisher via NetGalley.
April 20, 2025
2.5 stars
I picked this up because it is written by a local author and found it mildly interesting, but not that well written. I had seen references to Hazel Ying Lee at the local air museum, and at the PDX airport.
Born to a Chinese family in Portland, she became interested in flying and pursued it with passion and earned her pilots license in the 1930s. When local Chinese businessmen decided to fund pilot training with the intention of supporting the fledgling Chinese air force in their fight against Japanese aggression, Hazel talked herself and other women into the program. The Chinese had plenty of donated equipment from the US and Europe, but was short of trained pilots. Hazel traveled to China (along with her mother and some family to visit family in China), but was prevented by Chinese authorities from flying there due to her sex.
Returning to the US, she participated in the WASP (Women Airforce Service Pilots) training program, which was intended to replace male pilots in non-combat roles like ferrying planes across the US. She trained in Sweetwater, Texas, and persevered despite once slipping out of an open cockpit during an inversion and parachuting to safety.
The beginning of the story, focusing on Hazel's early life had a bit too much emphasis on 'girl boss' vibes for me. I found the book became more interesting when it expanded focus to take in the WASP training, and the political tug of war between the founder Jacqueline Cochran and the male military establishment that was eager to see women fail. Funding was skimpy, and women were forced to wear cast off men's jumpsuits until Cochran designed and made uniforms at her own expense. Male instructors were seldom disciplined for making sexual advances on their female trainees. Hazel was one of a few non-white women and there was a telling comment about how she was spared sexual harassment because white men did not see Chinese women as attractive.
There were positive articles in Life Magazine and other publications about the WASP program, but as the war started winding down, war propaganda started de-emphasizing the ways women were helping the war effort and saying that they should be supportive of men as they returned from war and become homemakers again. Hazel and other women pilots were working 7 days a week ferrying planes across the US, but at the same time Congress denied the program any funds and demanded it shut down in December 1944. The disbandment didn't make sense, since the war was still many months from ending. After the women were sent home, planes sat abandoned on runways waiting for pilots to deliver them from manufacturers to air force bases across the country. Half of all ferrying pilots were women, and replacing them actually cost more than continuing their service. When the women were dismissed, they were not provided any money or transport to return to their homes, and had to pay for travel out of their own pockets.
Less than a month before all the WASPs were decommissioned (although there were always considered civilians rather than a member of the military) Hazel was killed in a crash when a male pilot whose radio was out of service as he mistook signals for her to land as directed to himself. He was able to eject safely, but she was trapped in her cockpit and died of burns. Many witnesses found the male pilot was at fault, but the official reports laid partial blame on Hazel.
The WASP program was eventually recognized for its groundbreaking achievements, proving that women could fly as well as men, and often with fewer accidents. Jimmy Carter championed efforts to re-classify them as military and eligible for veteran's benefits, and also began allowing women to fly military aircraft.
I picked this up because it is written by a local author and found it mildly interesting, but not that well written. I had seen references to Hazel Ying Lee at the local air museum, and at the PDX airport.
Born to a Chinese family in Portland, she became interested in flying and pursued it with passion and earned her pilots license in the 1930s. When local Chinese businessmen decided to fund pilot training with the intention of supporting the fledgling Chinese air force in their fight against Japanese aggression, Hazel talked herself and other women into the program. The Chinese had plenty of donated equipment from the US and Europe, but was short of trained pilots. Hazel traveled to China (along with her mother and some family to visit family in China), but was prevented by Chinese authorities from flying there due to her sex.
Returning to the US, she participated in the WASP (Women Airforce Service Pilots) training program, which was intended to replace male pilots in non-combat roles like ferrying planes across the US. She trained in Sweetwater, Texas, and persevered despite once slipping out of an open cockpit during an inversion and parachuting to safety.
The beginning of the story, focusing on Hazel's early life had a bit too much emphasis on 'girl boss' vibes for me. I found the book became more interesting when it expanded focus to take in the WASP training, and the political tug of war between the founder Jacqueline Cochran and the male military establishment that was eager to see women fail. Funding was skimpy, and women were forced to wear cast off men's jumpsuits until Cochran designed and made uniforms at her own expense. Male instructors were seldom disciplined for making sexual advances on their female trainees. Hazel was one of a few non-white women and there was a telling comment about how she was spared sexual harassment because white men did not see Chinese women as attractive.
There were positive articles in Life Magazine and other publications about the WASP program, but as the war started winding down, war propaganda started de-emphasizing the ways women were helping the war effort and saying that they should be supportive of men as they returned from war and become homemakers again. Hazel and other women pilots were working 7 days a week ferrying planes across the US, but at the same time Congress denied the program any funds and demanded it shut down in December 1944. The disbandment didn't make sense, since the war was still many months from ending. After the women were sent home, planes sat abandoned on runways waiting for pilots to deliver them from manufacturers to air force bases across the country. Half of all ferrying pilots were women, and replacing them actually cost more than continuing their service. When the women were dismissed, they were not provided any money or transport to return to their homes, and had to pay for travel out of their own pockets.
Less than a month before all the WASPs were decommissioned (although there were always considered civilians rather than a member of the military) Hazel was killed in a crash when a male pilot whose radio was out of service as he mistook signals for her to land as directed to himself. He was able to eject safely, but she was trapped in her cockpit and died of burns. Many witnesses found the male pilot was at fault, but the official reports laid partial blame on Hazel.
The WASP program was eventually recognized for its groundbreaking achievements, proving that women could fly as well as men, and often with fewer accidents. Jimmy Carter championed efforts to re-classify them as military and eligible for veteran's benefits, and also began allowing women to fly military aircraft.
September 20, 2024
An extensively researched biography covering the plight of Chinese Americans from the mid19th - mid 20th centuries and the prejudices they faced, along with the arcane rules and regulations surrounding their presence in America. It also mentions the Japanese-American's plight during WWII.
The author details the family history of the protagonist and her fellow Chinese citizens, and the limitations placed on Asians and women both as well as, briefly, those imposed by Jim Crow laws on African-Americans, but it focuses mainly on the Chinese Americans and the impact of the Sino-Japanese war that continued previous to and concurrently with both the Chinese civil war between Communists and nationalists, and WWII in the Pacific theater.
Hazel Lee goes flying once, after having raptly watched air shows, and she is hooked. She must learn to fly! She becomes the first Asian female to get a private pilot's license in America.
Chinese communities in America are interested in training pilots to fly in China against the vastly superior Japanese air force, and Hazel manages to train with the 2nd group to go to China, but she is excluded from flying combat missions once in China, despite the recommendations of her American instructors and despite her willingness to go. She finds other ways to be of help, but when America enters WWII, she returns to America, where she feels she will have a better chance of flying for the military, even in an ancillary capacity. She joins the WASPs, and their history, and the tales of some of the other women who joined, are explored, along with the nonsensical "reasoning" of the men in Congress, the Senate, and the military, and part of the root cause of the disbanding of the WASPs at a time when they were desperately needed towards the end of the war.
Also explored are the sorely needed reforms in the military, the belated recognition, and the incompleteness of this recognition. The sacrifices the women made, their superior safety records, and the hurdles they faced just to be recognized as capable as each new airplane was rolled out and assigned to go to US and Allied military across both oceans, are all enumerated.
The impact of these women, esp. Hazel and other Asian Americans is noted, and the lifting of immigration restrictions that applied only to Orientals, as Asians were called at the time, didn't occur until mid-WWII.
I found the book fascinating, well read, and well researched, and recommend it to everyone with any interest in seeing America's past prejudices and how things slowly changed. I also enjoyed reading about someone who was able to fulfill a dream I was denied because of poor eyesight - a female getring a pilot's license and enjoying the freedom of the skies.
The author details the family history of the protagonist and her fellow Chinese citizens, and the limitations placed on Asians and women both as well as, briefly, those imposed by Jim Crow laws on African-Americans, but it focuses mainly on the Chinese Americans and the impact of the Sino-Japanese war that continued previous to and concurrently with both the Chinese civil war between Communists and nationalists, and WWII in the Pacific theater.
Hazel Lee goes flying once, after having raptly watched air shows, and she is hooked. She must learn to fly! She becomes the first Asian female to get a private pilot's license in America.
Chinese communities in America are interested in training pilots to fly in China against the vastly superior Japanese air force, and Hazel manages to train with the 2nd group to go to China, but she is excluded from flying combat missions once in China, despite the recommendations of her American instructors and despite her willingness to go. She finds other ways to be of help, but when America enters WWII, she returns to America, where she feels she will have a better chance of flying for the military, even in an ancillary capacity. She joins the WASPs, and their history, and the tales of some of the other women who joined, are explored, along with the nonsensical "reasoning" of the men in Congress, the Senate, and the military, and part of the root cause of the disbanding of the WASPs at a time when they were desperately needed towards the end of the war.
Also explored are the sorely needed reforms in the military, the belated recognition, and the incompleteness of this recognition. The sacrifices the women made, their superior safety records, and the hurdles they faced just to be recognized as capable as each new airplane was rolled out and assigned to go to US and Allied military across both oceans, are all enumerated.
The impact of these women, esp. Hazel and other Asian Americans is noted, and the lifting of immigration restrictions that applied only to Orientals, as Asians were called at the time, didn't occur until mid-WWII.
I found the book fascinating, well read, and well researched, and recommend it to everyone with any interest in seeing America's past prejudices and how things slowly changed. I also enjoyed reading about someone who was able to fulfill a dream I was denied because of poor eyesight - a female getring a pilot's license and enjoying the freedom of the skies.
May 22, 2024
In World War II, the United States had a big problem. They were growing the Army Air Corp, churning out planes by the thousands, but they needed pilots to get planes from the factories to the air units. Male pilots were needed overseas, so was born the Women Airforce Service Pilots program which trained women to fly the military aircraft across the country. In American Flygirl, Susan Ankeny tells the story of Hazel Ying Lee, the first female Chinese-American to obtain her pilot's license and train as a member of W.A.S.P.
Hazel Ying Lee grew up in Portland's (OR) Chinatown facing all the "normal" racism of the time, but she had a dream of flying. In 1932, she managed to get a job running an elevator to pay for flying lessons and obtained her private pilot's license. She later joined the Chinese Flying School to train for lying in China against the Japanese. But when she arrived in China in 1933, she was not accepted in the Chinese Air Force. She did manage to fly commercial aircraft and served a a security guard at a Chinese air force base. Then in 1934, she moved back to the United States to work with the Universal Trading Corporation getting war supplies for China.
In December 1942, Hazel heard about an opportunity to fly. Jackie Cochran had made a deal with General "Hap" Arnold to allow women to be trained to fly military planes in noncombat roles, specifically from factories to exit points or permanent units. Hazel joined the fourth training class in 1943 - the first class that trained at Avenger Field in Sweetwater, Texas. After learning to fly the Army way, Hazel and the other member of her class joined the Ferry Command to fly military aircraft all over the country. They flew B-17s, B-29s, P-51, P-47s, and P-40s along with A-24s. Hazel was flying a P-63 Kingcobra from New York to Seattle in November 1944 when her plane was struck by another plane while landing in Great Falls (MT). Both planes burst in flames and crashed. Hazel died two days later due to her injuries.
In American Flygirl, Susan Ankeny provides a life history of Hazel Ying Lee in historical context while also providing an interesting look at the training that Hazel and other members of W.A.S.P. received. If you are interested flying, female aviation or the WWII home front, this is a book for you!
Thanks Netgalley and Kensington Books for the chance to read this title.
Hazel Ying Lee grew up in Portland's (OR) Chinatown facing all the "normal" racism of the time, but she had a dream of flying. In 1932, she managed to get a job running an elevator to pay for flying lessons and obtained her private pilot's license. She later joined the Chinese Flying School to train for lying in China against the Japanese. But when she arrived in China in 1933, she was not accepted in the Chinese Air Force. She did manage to fly commercial aircraft and served a a security guard at a Chinese air force base. Then in 1934, she moved back to the United States to work with the Universal Trading Corporation getting war supplies for China.
In December 1942, Hazel heard about an opportunity to fly. Jackie Cochran had made a deal with General "Hap" Arnold to allow women to be trained to fly military planes in noncombat roles, specifically from factories to exit points or permanent units. Hazel joined the fourth training class in 1943 - the first class that trained at Avenger Field in Sweetwater, Texas. After learning to fly the Army way, Hazel and the other member of her class joined the Ferry Command to fly military aircraft all over the country. They flew B-17s, B-29s, P-51, P-47s, and P-40s along with A-24s. Hazel was flying a P-63 Kingcobra from New York to Seattle in November 1944 when her plane was struck by another plane while landing in Great Falls (MT). Both planes burst in flames and crashed. Hazel died two days later due to her injuries.
In American Flygirl, Susan Ankeny provides a life history of Hazel Ying Lee in historical context while also providing an interesting look at the training that Hazel and other members of W.A.S.P. received. If you are interested flying, female aviation or the WWII home front, this is a book for you!
Thanks Netgalley and Kensington Books for the chance to read this title.
February 29, 2024
Susan Tate Ankeny, American Flygirl, Citadel Press, Kensington Books, April 2024.
Thank you, NetGalley, for providing me with this uncorrected proof for review.
American Flygirl is a wonderful amalgam of stories associated with women and flying, from the main protagonist Hazel and her companions, including their leader Jackie Corcoran, in the Women Airforce Service Pilots. All of these women battled prejudice, and some of the details are harrowing. At the same time, the women’s resilience and the personal face given this by is an impressive memorial to the women, those who supported them, and the changes they were able to inspire in women’s role in this most exciting and demanding occupation.
The prologue, set in 1943 shows Hazel Ying Lee in front of an aircraft in khaki overalls (too large, they are men’s) anticipating being ‘washed out’ of her training because of a mishap. This prologue establishes a context, a snippet of aviation history at the time, and an insight into Hazel’s character. From Hazel’s birth in 1912 and growing up in the 1920s in Portland, USA, to her time in China and Hong Kong, her graduation from the Chinese flying school in Portland, to the menial jobs she was forced to accept because of prejudice, and then flying and the dangers, Susan Tate Ankeny brings to this story a woman of character intensely alive.
As well as expanding Hazel’s story to include the neighbourhood, neighbours, companions at the flying school and their late attempts to join the Chinese aviation fleet against Japanese incursion, Tate Ankeny provides an excellent portrait of WASPs in the aviation industry. The story includes the prejudice Hazel suffered as a woman, and as Chinese, as well as shedding so much light on the dangers WASPs met from male companions jealous of women’s entry to the world of war time aviation. As searing as these truths are, they do not detract from a story that is essentially positive. Perhaps this is because of Hazel’s heroic qualities, perhaps because of the way in which her portrait is developed as a woman of smiles, warmth, strength and courage.
It has taken a writer who has insight, a sense of history in its minutia and broader aspects and a love for her subject to produce a memoir with impact. Susan Tate Ankeny is such a writer and American Flygirl is such a memoir.
Thank you, NetGalley, for providing me with this uncorrected proof for review.
American Flygirl is a wonderful amalgam of stories associated with women and flying, from the main protagonist Hazel and her companions, including their leader Jackie Corcoran, in the Women Airforce Service Pilots. All of these women battled prejudice, and some of the details are harrowing. At the same time, the women’s resilience and the personal face given this by is an impressive memorial to the women, those who supported them, and the changes they were able to inspire in women’s role in this most exciting and demanding occupation.
The prologue, set in 1943 shows Hazel Ying Lee in front of an aircraft in khaki overalls (too large, they are men’s) anticipating being ‘washed out’ of her training because of a mishap. This prologue establishes a context, a snippet of aviation history at the time, and an insight into Hazel’s character. From Hazel’s birth in 1912 and growing up in the 1920s in Portland, USA, to her time in China and Hong Kong, her graduation from the Chinese flying school in Portland, to the menial jobs she was forced to accept because of prejudice, and then flying and the dangers, Susan Tate Ankeny brings to this story a woman of character intensely alive.
As well as expanding Hazel’s story to include the neighbourhood, neighbours, companions at the flying school and their late attempts to join the Chinese aviation fleet against Japanese incursion, Tate Ankeny provides an excellent portrait of WASPs in the aviation industry. The story includes the prejudice Hazel suffered as a woman, and as Chinese, as well as shedding so much light on the dangers WASPs met from male companions jealous of women’s entry to the world of war time aviation. As searing as these truths are, they do not detract from a story that is essentially positive. Perhaps this is because of Hazel’s heroic qualities, perhaps because of the way in which her portrait is developed as a woman of smiles, warmth, strength and courage.
It has taken a writer who has insight, a sense of history in its minutia and broader aspects and a love for her subject to produce a memoir with impact. Susan Tate Ankeny is such a writer and American Flygirl is such a memoir.
January 22, 2024
Hazel Ying Lee (August 24, 1912–November 25, 1944),was born in Portland, Oregon.Her parents were first-generation Chinese Americans who had immigrated from Taishan,Guangdong.The family owned a restaurant in Old Town Chinatown.Despite the widespread anti-Chinese bias,Lee led a full and active life.Following graduation from Commerce High School in 1929,Lee worked as an elevator operator at Liebes Department Store in downtown Portland.In 1932, Lee caught the flying bug after her first airplane ride.She joined the Chinese Flying Club of Portland and took flying lessons with famed aviator Al Greenwood.In October 1932, Lee became one of the first Chinese-American women to earn a pilot's license.While in Portland, Lee met her future husband pilot "Clifford" Louie Yim-qun.When the Japanese invaded Manchuria in 1933, Lee and several other Chinese Americans went there with the goal of aiding the Chinese Air Force.Despite demand for pilots,the Republic of China Air Force would not admit women.So Lee had to take a desk job,flying only occasionally for a commercial Chinese company.Frustrated,Lee instead settled in Canton and spent the next few years flying for a private airline.In 1937,the Second Sino-Japanese War begun.Lee remained in China and was in Canton during aerial bombings,she found shelter for friends,neighbours and family.In 1938,following another unsuccessful effort to aid the Air Force as a pilot, Lee returned to the US through escaping China to Hong Kong.In New York City, Lee got job as a buyer of war materials for besieged China.During WWII,Lee joined the WASPs.Lee was the first Chinese-American woman to fly for the US military.Lee quickly emerged as a leader among the WASPs.She was calm,fearless,humorous and friendly.Upon graduation,Lee was assigned to the Third Ferrying Group at Romulus,MI.In September 1944,Lee was sent to Pursuit School,to fly faster,high powered fighters.On November 23 1944,at Great Falls,MT,Lee's P-63 Kingcobra collided with another P-63 and Lee's plane caught fire,and 2 days later,Lee tragically died of severe burns.She is buried alongside her brother Victor in River View Cemetery in Portland.Lee was a trailblazer.
April 3, 2024
Hazel Ying Lee (1912-1944) was the first Chinese born American woman to hold a pilot’s licence in the USA and the last WASP to die in WW2. Born in Portland, Oregon, one of eight children, Hazel became hooked on flying after taking a short flight in a biplane at an air show. Working unpaid in her family restaurant since graduating high school, she needed to find paid work to pay for flying lessons and became an elevator girl in a Portland department store where she had to hide her Chinese appearance so as not to offend the (white) customers.
After obtaining her pilot’s licence Hazel and another woman, Virginia Wong were accepted into the second group of American Chinese being trained in Portland as pilots for China’s defense against the invading Japanese. Unfortunately, when she arrived in China she was told female pilots not be allowed to join the air force, so instead she flew part time for Chinese commercial airlines who had lost their pilots to the ongoing war. Back in America Hazel joined what would later become the WASPs, ferrying new and repaired planes to airfields across America to relieving male pilots for active duty.
This is a fascinating, well researched account, not just of Hazel Lee, a remarkable woman, who fought through hardship and racial prejudice with humour and resolve, but also of the formation of the WASPs, the women recruits and their contribution to the American war effort, largely unrecognised at the time. After being unaccountably disbanded 8 months before the end of the war (with planes still sitting on airfields waiting to be delivered), it would be 30 years before women were allowed to fly military aircraft in the US air force and another year before Congress finally granted the WASPs military status and eventually veteran status. Recommended to those interested in reading the untold tales of some of Americas unsung wartime heroines.
With thanks to Kensington Books via Netgalley for a copy to read
After obtaining her pilot’s licence Hazel and another woman, Virginia Wong were accepted into the second group of American Chinese being trained in Portland as pilots for China’s defense against the invading Japanese. Unfortunately, when she arrived in China she was told female pilots not be allowed to join the air force, so instead she flew part time for Chinese commercial airlines who had lost their pilots to the ongoing war. Back in America Hazel joined what would later become the WASPs, ferrying new and repaired planes to airfields across America to relieving male pilots for active duty.
This is a fascinating, well researched account, not just of Hazel Lee, a remarkable woman, who fought through hardship and racial prejudice with humour and resolve, but also of the formation of the WASPs, the women recruits and their contribution to the American war effort, largely unrecognised at the time. After being unaccountably disbanded 8 months before the end of the war (with planes still sitting on airfields waiting to be delivered), it would be 30 years before women were allowed to fly military aircraft in the US air force and another year before Congress finally granted the WASPs military status and eventually veteran status. Recommended to those interested in reading the untold tales of some of Americas unsung wartime heroines.
With thanks to Kensington Books via Netgalley for a copy to read
May 30, 2024
I received this book from Kensington Publishers, just in time for AAPI month, in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
Having read a few books about WWII, I had heard of the WASPs (Women’s Airforce Service Pilots), but I didn’t know very much about them or the role they played in WWII, and I knew nothing at all about Hazel Ying Lee. Sadly, I’d never heard of her until reading this book. She was born on August 25, 1912, in Portland, Oregon to Chinese parents who immigrated to America from China. Hazel grew up during a time known as the Exclusion Era, in which Asians in America were subjected to unjust discrimination and were denied the rights granted to Euro-Americans.
At 19 years old, Hazel Lee was determined to follow her dream of learning to fly an airplane, despite all the odds against her, and in 1932 she became the first Asian-American woman to earn a pilot’s license. Her determination and strong will earned her a place in the WASPs organization and helped to break down barriers for women in aviation, especially Asian-American women.
The story of how the WASPs came to be is a very interesting one and this author brings it to life and makes readers feel as if we are right there. Not only do we learn about Hazel’s life, but we also learn of the many courageous women who bravely served our country as WASPs, as well as the discriminations they faced. This book made me feel the gamut of emotions as I read—anger, happiness, sadness. In the last chapter of the book, the author says: “I am no longer the same person I was when I began writing Hazel’s story,” and I can honestly say that I am no longer the same person I was before I began reading Hazel’s story. Hazel Ying Lee is an unsung American hero and I’m glad that I had the opportunity to read this book about her.
Having read a few books about WWII, I had heard of the WASPs (Women’s Airforce Service Pilots), but I didn’t know very much about them or the role they played in WWII, and I knew nothing at all about Hazel Ying Lee. Sadly, I’d never heard of her until reading this book. She was born on August 25, 1912, in Portland, Oregon to Chinese parents who immigrated to America from China. Hazel grew up during a time known as the Exclusion Era, in which Asians in America were subjected to unjust discrimination and were denied the rights granted to Euro-Americans.
At 19 years old, Hazel Lee was determined to follow her dream of learning to fly an airplane, despite all the odds against her, and in 1932 she became the first Asian-American woman to earn a pilot’s license. Her determination and strong will earned her a place in the WASPs organization and helped to break down barriers for women in aviation, especially Asian-American women.
The story of how the WASPs came to be is a very interesting one and this author brings it to life and makes readers feel as if we are right there. Not only do we learn about Hazel’s life, but we also learn of the many courageous women who bravely served our country as WASPs, as well as the discriminations they faced. This book made me feel the gamut of emotions as I read—anger, happiness, sadness. In the last chapter of the book, the author says: “I am no longer the same person I was when I began writing Hazel’s story,” and I can honestly say that I am no longer the same person I was before I began reading Hazel’s story. Hazel Ying Lee is an unsung American hero and I’m glad that I had the opportunity to read this book about her.
September 25, 2024
So first a confession. I bumped the rating for this up a bit because Hazel was a remarkable woman and her story is little known and very important. I did learn a lot about her in this book, but it is honestly not very well written.
For starters, there aren't citations for most of what is in here. Where did this information come from? Did Hazel leave a diary? Is it from her letters? The citations in the back are fairly sparse with few primary sources, and a lot of them cover related tangents and similar experiences the other WASPs had. There is a lot of speculation in here that seems to be included for the sake of making this read more like a novel.
The writing is very simplistic and would be appropriate for a teen audience. This may be a benefit, as introducing the next generation to Hazel's story is definitely important. However, I was hoping for a more rigorous and in depth work.
There were some typos and errors. Ankeny was off by a year on the dates of the Battle of Britain. That was in 1940, not 1941 as she states. Also, Cornelia Fort was flying an Interstate Cadet during the attack on Pearl Harbor, not a Cub. Also Cubs are not made out of Balsa wood, as she states later, and I have never heard of low horsepower making a plane more difficult to land.
Which brings me to my next point. Ankeny could stand to learn something about planes. Putting the flaps down too soon before landing causes a stall? It is important to make sure you don't stall while spinning? She also seems perplexed by "all the dials and knobs" in the cockpit.
But overall, Hazel's story needs to be told and Ankeny was the one to do it. I do still recommend this book, but wish it was better.
For starters, there aren't citations for most of what is in here. Where did this information come from? Did Hazel leave a diary? Is it from her letters? The citations in the back are fairly sparse with few primary sources, and a lot of them cover related tangents and similar experiences the other WASPs had. There is a lot of speculation in here that seems to be included for the sake of making this read more like a novel.
The writing is very simplistic and would be appropriate for a teen audience. This may be a benefit, as introducing the next generation to Hazel's story is definitely important. However, I was hoping for a more rigorous and in depth work.
There were some typos and errors. Ankeny was off by a year on the dates of the Battle of Britain. That was in 1940, not 1941 as she states. Also, Cornelia Fort was flying an Interstate Cadet during the attack on Pearl Harbor, not a Cub. Also Cubs are not made out of Balsa wood, as she states later, and I have never heard of low horsepower making a plane more difficult to land.
Which brings me to my next point. Ankeny could stand to learn something about planes. Putting the flaps down too soon before landing causes a stall? It is important to make sure you don't stall while spinning? She also seems perplexed by "all the dials and knobs" in the cockpit.
But overall, Hazel's story needs to be told and Ankeny was the one to do it. I do still recommend this book, but wish it was better.
April 13, 2024
Wow. Very rarely does a book leave me speechless. I knew very little about the WASPs before reading this book, now I’m ready to become a woman fighter pilot (just kidding). My husband is a Naval Aviator, so I was excited to read this book about Hazel Ying Lee. Hazel was the first Chinese American woman to fly for the military and the first female Asian American to receive a pilot license. I’m in awe of the grit and determination the women pilots had.
Here are some of my favorite quotes:
“It didn’t matter that she was of Chinese descent. No one could see her race; no one could see her gender. In the sky, she wasn’t Chinese or American, man or woman, visible or invisible . . . she was just herself.”
“For most women, groomed to deny their own capabilities, to distrust themselves, and to defer to men, the decision to fly was fraught with fears, not only of flying, but of being independent. In an age when women were encouraged to stay grounded, Hazel’s wanting to fly was the ultimate expression of individuality.”
“…she proved that anything is possible. Gender and racial barriers never stood in her way.”
This book wonderfully tells Hazel story, while giving a lot of great information about the WASP. I loved learning about other WASP members too. The author did a great job with her research.
Thanks to Netgalley for the arc in exchange for my honest opinion.
Here are some of my favorite quotes:
“It didn’t matter that she was of Chinese descent. No one could see her race; no one could see her gender. In the sky, she wasn’t Chinese or American, man or woman, visible or invisible . . . she was just herself.”
“For most women, groomed to deny their own capabilities, to distrust themselves, and to defer to men, the decision to fly was fraught with fears, not only of flying, but of being independent. In an age when women were encouraged to stay grounded, Hazel’s wanting to fly was the ultimate expression of individuality.”
“…she proved that anything is possible. Gender and racial barriers never stood in her way.”
This book wonderfully tells Hazel story, while giving a lot of great information about the WASP. I loved learning about other WASP members too. The author did a great job with her research.
Thanks to Netgalley for the arc in exchange for my honest opinion.
May 2, 2024
American Flygirl
by Susan Tate Ankeny
An amazing look at a little known historical figure. The WASP's is another attempt like Tuskegee Airmen to show that airflight should not be limited by misconceptions and prejudice. The Wasp's showed that women can fly, they had better flight recorders and were a benefit to the World War 2 effort. The strength of this book is that although it ends with the Wasp's and their eventual deactivation in December 1944, the book shows the full and event filled life of Hazel Ying Lee. Yes, she was an outstanding pilot. Yes, she and her friends that were pilots for the WASP were able to fly over seventy different types of aircraft in her job of transporting new aircraft from factories to domestic airfields for debarkation points. Yes, she was an Asian American woman who over came prejudice and social injustice. There is always more to the story.
This book should be included in the libraries, and reading material of schools students nation wide. One so they know this little known history, but secondarily so that they can see themselves doing their own dreams despite social, and political limitations. She led an exemplary life because she fought hard for her beliefs, and worked through her problems, nothing was given to her, nothing was taken for granted.
by Susan Tate Ankeny
An amazing look at a little known historical figure. The WASP's is another attempt like Tuskegee Airmen to show that airflight should not be limited by misconceptions and prejudice. The Wasp's showed that women can fly, they had better flight recorders and were a benefit to the World War 2 effort. The strength of this book is that although it ends with the Wasp's and their eventual deactivation in December 1944, the book shows the full and event filled life of Hazel Ying Lee. Yes, she was an outstanding pilot. Yes, she and her friends that were pilots for the WASP were able to fly over seventy different types of aircraft in her job of transporting new aircraft from factories to domestic airfields for debarkation points. Yes, she was an Asian American woman who over came prejudice and social injustice. There is always more to the story.
This book should be included in the libraries, and reading material of schools students nation wide. One so they know this little known history, but secondarily so that they can see themselves doing their own dreams despite social, and political limitations. She led an exemplary life because she fought hard for her beliefs, and worked through her problems, nothing was given to her, nothing was taken for granted.
June 4, 2024
Thank you to Kensington and NetGalley for the eGalley to review!
Despite being a United States Air Force brat, I don't think I've ever heard of Hazel Ying Lee and this biography makes the case for why I should have. Hazel was a remarkable person and pilot, helping to break stereotypes and bring about major change. She deserves a spot next to other famous female pilots when aviation and military history is being discussed, that's for sure! Hers is a story wrought with racism, misogyny, and tragedy, much like that of Bessie Coleman. Many people's lives were touched by her.
I like that it's not just Hazel's story being told, it's also of those who helped her story unfold, giving us important context for major events and incidents. I appreciate that. However, sometimes this book tries too hard to be a novelization, which means some scenes are written as though they are exactly that--scenes from a novel. It was a little jarring, making me wonder if they were extracted from personal accounts or were just dramatizations/artistic liberties. There is also some conjecture near the end about her tragic death in the form of the author asking leading questions. Other than that, it's a great recounting of the life of a person who should be in more history books! I highly recommend it for AAPI Heritage Month displays and book lists.
Despite being a United States Air Force brat, I don't think I've ever heard of Hazel Ying Lee and this biography makes the case for why I should have. Hazel was a remarkable person and pilot, helping to break stereotypes and bring about major change. She deserves a spot next to other famous female pilots when aviation and military history is being discussed, that's for sure! Hers is a story wrought with racism, misogyny, and tragedy, much like that of Bessie Coleman. Many people's lives were touched by her.
I like that it's not just Hazel's story being told, it's also of those who helped her story unfold, giving us important context for major events and incidents. I appreciate that. However, sometimes this book tries too hard to be a novelization, which means some scenes are written as though they are exactly that--scenes from a novel. It was a little jarring, making me wonder if they were extracted from personal accounts or were just dramatizations/artistic liberties. There is also some conjecture near the end about her tragic death in the form of the author asking leading questions. Other than that, it's a great recounting of the life of a person who should be in more history books! I highly recommend it for AAPI Heritage Month displays and book lists.
July 3, 2024
Among the stack of books to be read this summer, few have had me as eager as "American Fly Girl," Susan Tate's remarkable story of Hazel Ying Lee, a trailblazer whose amazing accomplishments have largely gone unnoticed.
Who is Hazel Ying Lee? How about the first Asian-American woman to earn a pilot's license? To join the Women Airforce Service Pilots? To fight for her country in World War II? In an era where anti-Asian sentiment ran strong in this country, Hazel rose above it all and became an icon, an exemplar, and a hero in her own right.
"In less than a year, the young lady with a wicked sense of humor, a newfound love of flying, and a tough can-do attitude would earn her pilot's license and head to China to help against invading Japanese forces." That's just a teaser, and the book is one that will keep you reading, page after page.
When Hazel was killed flying a P-63 King Cobra into Great Falls, Montana, in late 1944, she was only 32 years old. It would be another 33 years before the her efforts and those of her fellow WASPs were finally recognized with official military status, and in 2010 she was posthumously awarded the Congressional Gold Medal.
No spoilers. Pick up a copy. It's THAT good.
Who is Hazel Ying Lee? How about the first Asian-American woman to earn a pilot's license? To join the Women Airforce Service Pilots? To fight for her country in World War II? In an era where anti-Asian sentiment ran strong in this country, Hazel rose above it all and became an icon, an exemplar, and a hero in her own right.
"In less than a year, the young lady with a wicked sense of humor, a newfound love of flying, and a tough can-do attitude would earn her pilot's license and head to China to help against invading Japanese forces." That's just a teaser, and the book is one that will keep you reading, page after page.
When Hazel was killed flying a P-63 King Cobra into Great Falls, Montana, in late 1944, she was only 32 years old. It would be another 33 years before the her efforts and those of her fellow WASPs were finally recognized with official military status, and in 2010 she was posthumously awarded the Congressional Gold Medal.
No spoilers. Pick up a copy. It's THAT good.
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