Let's Fly!: Barrington Irving's Record-Breaking Flight Around the World

by Chana Stiefel, Barrington Irving

The true story of Barrington Irving, who broke records as the youngest person and first Black man to fly solo around the world—co-authored by Barrington and award-winning author Chana Stiefel

As a kid, Barrington Irving moved from Jamaica to Miami and played football—his ticket to success, he thought. But then Captain Gary Robinson swooped into his life. Barrington had never seen a Black pilot before. Captain Robinson showed Barrington a jet, a cockpit, and what it was like to actually fly a plane—WHOAAA!

After that, Barrington had big plans, and two

Let's Fly!

Barrington Irving worked hard to become a pilot, and even harder to inspire other people to think big too. How big? A flight around the WORLD big. Climb aboard for the true story of how Barrington Irving went from tinkering kid to towering pilot and flew solo around the world—breaking records as the youngest person and first Black man ever to do it.

Buckle up! Sky-high dreams ahead.

“Rich and inspiring . . . Will have young flying enthusiasts riveted.”—SLJ

“High-octane [and] heroic."—Booklist.

“Uplifting . . . Will put the wind under readers’ wings.”—Kirkus

Genres: Picture Books, Biography, Nonfiction, Biography Memoir, Childrens

Audible Audio

Published January 14, 2025

About the author

Chana Stiefel is the author of more than 30 books for children, both fiction and nonfiction. Her recent picture book, THE TOWER OF LIFE: How Yaffa Eliach Rebuilt Her Town in Stories and Photographs (illus. Susan Gal, Scholastic), received many honors including the 2023 Sydney Taylor Book Award, a Robert F. Sibert Honor, the Margaret Wise Brown Prize, the Malka Penn Award for Human Rights in Children's Literature & SCBWI's Inaugural Robert Freedman Nonfiction Award for a Better World. Her next book is LET'S FLY: Barrington Irving's Record-Breaking Flight Around the World (co-written with Barrington Irving, illus. by Shamar Knight-Justice, Dial/PRH, 1-14-25). Other recent nonfiction titles include LET LIBERTY RISE! How America's Schoolchildren Helped Save the Statue of Liberty, illustrated by Chuck Groenink (Scholastic), and ANIMAL ZOMBIES! AND OTHER BLOODSUCKING BEASTS, CREEPY CRITTERS, AND REAL-LIFE MONSTERS (NatGeoKids). Chana's humorous fiction picture books include BRAVO AVOCADO (HarperCollins), MENDEL'S HANUKKAH MESS UP (Kalaniot), DADDY DEPOT (Feiwel & Friends) & MY NAME IS WAKAWAKLOCH (HMH). Chana is represented by agent Miranda Paul at Erin Murphy Literary.

Reviews

[Ellen Leventhal · Rating 5 out of 5]

As a reader, writer, and teacher, I love books that teach us about something or someone we didn't know without being didactic. Yes! Non-fiction and biographies can be exciting and fun. LET'S FLY: BARRINGTON IRVING'S FLIGHT AROUND THE WORLD by Chana Stiefel and Barrington Irving is exactly that. The writers' choice of using both first person and second person and the wonderful illustrations by Shemar Knight-Justice put the reader in the pilot's seat. Children of all ages will feel drawn to this book as they become part of the story. Barrington Irving is a person we should all know, and this book is the one to introduce us to him. I highly recommend LET'S FLY!

[Lauri Meyers · Rating 5 out of 5]

This memoir recounts the amazing story of the first black pilot to fly around the world and the youngest person, a young man only 24 who went for his dream with speed and gusto. He overcame huge challenges - like working through high school to pay for lessons, securing a plane piece by piece, and learning new skills.
The language is fun and active, putting you in the skies soaring.

I found it inspirational to see how he received and gave back, creating STEM classes for teens.
One of my favorite parts is the backmatter that shares how younger teens have broken his record for being the youngest pilot to fly around the world. Anyone could be next!

[Jilanne · Rating 5 out of 5]

What can I say? I'm gobsmacked! Barrington Irving's life journey is so inspiring, it makes me want to double down on my dreams, to give this book to my son who's at university in aerospace engineering, OR to give this book to anyone who dreams big dreams. Because it's not JUST about flying. Or maybe I should say that this book IS about flying higher than you think is possible, and daring to dream, and making those dreams come true through passion and perseverance. The author's energetic language (written in first person) grabs readers by the collar, insisting they turn the pages and stay enthralled in this man's journey. The pay-off is perfect.

Irving is a promising, mechanically-inclined kid, originally from Jamaica, who gets transplanted to Miami. When he's made fun of at school for being different, he promises himself he's going to soar. And after he's given the opportunity to become a pilot, he takes it, working to pay for his flight lessons. But he isn't content just to become a teenage pilot. He wants to fly around the world. The trouble is, he doesn't have an aircraft. And when he can't get anyone to sponsor the whole craft, he convinces aviation companies to donate parts so he can BUILD his own plane! Unbelievable! I love the depiction of his solo flight around the world (the youngest and first black pilot), showing the sources for flight delays, and culminating in a spread where Irving's plane ices up over the Pacific! Such tension! Will he succeed? (Spoiler alert: the answer is yes!) What a brave and ambitious young man!

But that's not all. As he'd once been given an opportunity to become a pilot, he starts a nonprofit to educate and give other kids opportunities in aviation. Such an amazing human being! Okay, I'll stop now. If you're looking to be inspired or to inspire kids to dream and pursue those dreams, read this book! OR as Irving said: "The only person who can stop you from doing something great is you."

P.S. The vibrant art supports the energy of the text, and I love the call-outs in the cockpit that show kids what some of those levers and buttons do. Back matter rounds out the story with info about how records change, fab aviation facts, and a creatively drawn timeline. Check it out! If I could give this book ten stars, I would.

[Ms. Yingling · Rating 3 out of 5]

Copy provided by the publisher

Born in 1983 in Jamaica, Barrington Irving moved to Miami with his family, where he was approached in his teens by Captain Gary Robinson, who walked into his parents' bookstore and asked Irving if he had any interest in flying. He hadn't really thought about it, but with his mentor's help, embarked on a career in aviation. After college and earning his pilot's license, Irving challenged himself to help others by doing something inspirational. He decided to fly solo around the world, and worked to get sponsors for his flight. This was not an easy task, but he eventually secured some sponsorships and was soon on his way. Flying around the world is fraught with challenges, but after 97 days, on June 27, 2007, he finished his trip and became the youngest person and the first Black man to complete a solo trip around the world.

Told in an engaging, first person narrative, Irving's challenges with flying are clearly delineated, but shown as something that can be surmounted with hard work and diligence. It's interesting to see the influence that Robinson had on him, and how flying was more than just a career. Young people need examples not only of accomplishments, but also of helping others. Irving gives back to the community with both Experience Aviation, which uses Aviation to build STEM skills, as well as Flying Classroom, which offers a STEM based curriculum aligned to state and national standards.

The digitally created artwork is bright and colorgul; Stiefel does a particularly good job at illustrating the sky! I particularly liked the flight map showing all of Irving's stops.

Notes at the end showcase other, younger flyers who broke Irving's record, as well as Fab Facts. The timeline is very complete, and illustrated with thumbnail photographs. Many picture book biographies don't include photos, and modern readers seem to enjoy those.

Inspire young readers to investigate aviation skills with this book, which goes well with Parsons and Christie's Flying Free: How Bessie Coleman’s Dreams Took Flight, Barton and Walthall's Moving Forward : From Space-age Rides to Civil Rights Sit-ins with Airman Alton Yates, Becker, Cooper, and Jaggar's Sprouting Wings: The True Story of James Herman Banning, the First African American Pilot to Fly Across the United States or Bildner's The Hallelujah Flight.

[Thompson McLeod · Rating 5 out of 5]

Let's Fly

Barrington Irving's Record-Breaking Flight Around the World

by Barrington Irving and Chana Stiefel

Illustrations by Shamar Knight-Justice

Dial Books for Young Readers

an imprint of Penguin Random House, LLC

2025

40 pages

ISBN: 9780593532133

Aviation enthusiasts will be soaring over this new autobiography (written with co-writer Chana Stiefel) about Barrington Irving, a young black man who dared to dream big and broke barriers in flight, in life and continues to foster the dreams of kids from all over the world through sharing his travels and adventures online. The first black man to lly solo around the world, he was also the youngest to do so until 2012 when his record was broken, but he will always be the first black man to fly solo around the globe.

When young Barrington meets Captain Gary Robinson, a black pilot, in his parents' book store, a dream is born. Captain Gary takes Barrington to see his jet. Barrington was hooked. On his sixteenth birthday, Captain Gary gave the gift of flying lessons to Barrington. He inspired Barrington to pay it forward and do something to help others. Barrington's big idea is to fly around the world, but he does not have a plane. With donated parts and a lot of begging, companies helped Barrington build his plane that he christened "Inspiration." With children watching, he climbed into the cockpit and set out on his ninety-seven day flight journey.

He continues to inspire and teach aviation and dreaming to thousands of kids. He founded Experience Aviation which teaches STEM to after-school kids. Over 5,000 kids have now completed the course and most went into math and/or science fields.

Complete with charts, maps, fab facts, records, timeline and bibliography, Let's Fly is a must have, must read for every collection. This book is a great gift to inspire young people who dream of flying,

Highly, highly recommended.

Ages 2-up for entertainment; ages 4 and up for inspiration and fostering dreams of flying.

[Our Weekend Is Booked · Rating 4 out of 5]

Barrington Irving teamed up with author Chana Stiefel to tell the story of his life and his amazing accomplishment of being the youngest person and the first Black man to fly solo around the world.

Barrington Irving was born in Jamaica but grew up in Miami, Florida. It was there that he met Captain Robinson, who introduced him to the idea of becoming a pilot. And right then, the course of his life changed forever. Barrington not only became a pilot, but he also had a goal to fly around the world. He met some roadblocks along the way, but he never gave up on his dream.

What I Liked: I enjoyed learning about a person who had such a huge impact on history. I had never heard of Barrington Irving before reading this book, and I am impressed with how determined he was to achieve his dreams. The illustrations in the book are bright and engaging and help connect readers to the story.

What Left Me Wanting More: Picture book biographies are an excellent way to introduce history and famous people to young readers. This book is geared toward three- to seven-year-olds, and it does a great job of writing for that audience. I found myself wanting to know a bit more about Barrington Irving and felt like some longer text could have helped me learn more about the famous aviator.

Let's Fly: Barrington Irving's Record-Breaking Flight Around the World is an engaging picture book that will inspire young readers to follow their dreams.

This review first appeared on YA Books Central and can be found here:
https://yabookscentral.com/lets-fly/

[Sandy Brehl · Rating 5 out of 5]

This collaborative authorship allows Barrington Irving to account for his remarkable achievements and youthful pursuits with a distinct first person voice. Steifel's skilled experience with nonfiction picture book text allows pacing, phrasing, and layered themes to shine through.
Barrington's account begins with a direct letter to readers, then leads them into his early years in Jamaica, his interests in cars, trucks, and the skies above. A move to Miami left him feeling like an outsider, seeking a way out through high school football. When a Black pilot, Captain Gary Robinson shopped at Barrington's family's bookstore, he asked a question that would change the young man's life:
Have you ever thought of becoming a pilot?
The story unfolds with clarity and crisp pacing, including the ensuing pages of taking instruction, setting seemingly impossible goals, reaching out to introduce young people to careers in airplane-connected ventures, winning world records, and developing/achieving newer goals.
All while still in his twenties.
What an inspiring life, well-told.

[Karen Greenwald · Rating 5 out of 5]

Barrington Irving's record-setting solo flight around the world is impressive for so many reasons--and both he and his co-author, award-winner Chana Steifel share them with soaring language that moves and inspires! As the youngest and first black man to achieve this incredible feat, it is actually the journey he takes en route to "take-off" that I feel many will find most powerful. When met with the ultimate challenge--not enough money to get a plane--Irving seeks out the most creative way around it. Get pieces and build his own. This shows children that realizing your dream is not only about the end-goal. It is also about the work, belief, and often, problem-solving required to be ready. Vivid illustrations, enriching back matter, and key word-graphics will engage readers of all ages! Don't miss this flight!

[Ariel · Rating 5 out of 5]

The fact that Barrington Irving was the youngest and first Black pilot to fly solo around the world would be interesting enough to be the focus of a picture book. But co-authors Irving and Chana Stiefel's delving into Irving's background to show the build up to how he got there, is what makes it truly inspiring to readers of all ages. The theme of inspiration, who and what inspired Irving to make his dream come true, and how he in turn used his record breaking solo trip (and subsequent programs for kids discussed in back matter) to inspire others, keeps the reader rooting for Irving and turning the pages. I loved how illustrator Shamar Knight-Justice used both close-ups and wide range angles to show both the personal thoughts and experiences of Irving, as well as the huge impact of what he accomplished. Highly recommended!

[Kathleen Wilford · Rating 5 out of 5]

Chana Stiefel takes the inspiring story of Barrington Irving, the first Black man to fly solo around the world, and makes it perfect for a younger audience. While many picture book biographies are text-heavy and technical, this one is lively and fun to read. Irving’s early life in Jamaica, his struggles with discrimination after he moves to Miami, and his challenges in learning to fly and finding sponsors are all mentioned, but with a light touch and accessible language. The first-person narration draws the audience in. When we follow Irving on his flight around the world, we’re rooting for him all the way. “So what’s your dream? Let’s fly!” is the perfect ending. Author notes and labeled illustrations add interesting information.

[Kelsey Gross · Rating 5 out of 5]

LET’S FLY! is the inspiring real-life story of Barrington Irving, who became the first Black man and youngest person to fly around the world. The story is told in an engaging first-person voice (Mr. Irving is a co-author), and realistic illustrations capture amazing aerial scenes. Kids will be fascinated and inspired to pursue their own dreams, knowing it takes persistence and believing in yourself. Back matter offers additional facts about Mr. Irving’s life and record-breaking flight, and the work he does to connect young people to STEM fields. This book would be ideal for classroom use as well as a wonderful addition to a home bookshelf. Highly recommend!

[Naomi Gruer · Rating 5 out of 5]

Let's Fly! is the interesting true story of Barrington Irving's record-breaking, solo flight around the world. From the story's start to finish, there's momentum in co-authors' Barrington Irving and Chana Stiefel's text and Shamar Knight-Justice's illustrations, taking readers on a journey from idea to learning to planning to flying! The story shows how Irving didn't give up, had to build his own airplane, endured challenges on his flight, and decided to inspire kids. Let's Fly! is a great read on many levels, and the book includes a diagram of a cockpit, labeled airplane parts, Irving's flight path, others who've broken flight records, "Fab Facts," and quotes.

[Rebecca Gardyn · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a fabulously written and illustrated biography of the first Black man ever to fly solo around the world! He was also, at age 23 in 2007, the youngest person to achieve this feat (However, the extensive back matter explains that the age record has been broken since). The text is full of wonderful energy and is told in the first person, inviting the reader into the co-pilot seat to experience the incredible ride that is Mr. Irving’s life. I love how the book encourages readers to go after their dreams, but also reminds them that there will always be challenges along the way and that achieving anything important requires hard-work, patience, and persistence.

[Jyoti Gopal · Rating 5 out of 5]

Inspired by a true story, the authors take us on an adventure, high above the clouds, as we learn about the first black man, and youngest person, to fly solo around the world. With language that soars, and details that inspire, buckle up those belts, it’s a wild ride! Bright bold illustrations by Knight-Justice bring this amazing story to life. My favorite spread is where we get to see the map of Barrington Irving’s solo flight and follow along on his journey.
A great read for plane enthusiasts, but also for anyone who dares to dream big!

[Liza Wiemer · Rating 5 out of 5]

Absolutely captivating and inspiring! "The only person who can stop you from doing something great is you." I love that. This book has so much heart and soul. Harrington Irving was bullied when he was younger, made fun of for his accent, and felt like an outsider. When he has the opportunity to learn to fly, he takes it. AND SOARS!

What he accomplishes - being the first Black man to fly across the world at age twenty-three in a plane he put together-is absolutely remarkable.

A must read for all ages.

[Claire Noland · Rating 5 out of 5]

If you love to read about inspirational people who overcome adversity to achieve their dreams, then add Let's Fly! to your reading list. Told in first person, young readers will be fascinated by Barrington Irving who, at 23 years old, became the youngest and first black man to fly solo around the world. The text is lively and the illustrations convey the dangers and challenges Barrington Irving faced. This biography includes interesting back matter that will excite and encourage children to learn more. Highly recommended.

[Laura Roettiger · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love an inspiring story of someone achieving their dreams and when it's told well and beautifully illustrated, I am truly ready to go along for the ride! Let's Fly! is all that and more. Barrington Irving's life has all the elements of an underdog + feel good STEM story and with co-author Chana Stiefel and the wonderful artwork of illustrator Shamar Knight-Justice they've created a book that is much more than that! I love the timeline, the way the facts are laid out, all of the maps, and I know this will be a great book for home and school use for years to come.

[Patricia N. McLaughlin · Rating 4 out of 5]

Do you have a dream? Let Barrington Irving show you what it takes to make that dream come true. Seek out a mentor, or let one find you. Study diligently. Practice, practice, practice. Ask for resources. Believe in yourself. Be resilient and adapt to adversity. Let your spirit soar to its greatest heights. Detailed illustrations show how Irving dared to dream big and made it a reality. End pages include some Fab Facts about Irving’s remarkable accomplishment, a timeline of his life’s highlights, and a selected bibliography for further information about Irving and aviation.

[Lisa · Rating 5 out of 5]

I had no idea that barriers had been broken and new records were established in 2007. This book was the story of Barrington Irving and his record-breaking flight around the world in a plane that he built himself. He was the first black pilot to fly solo around the world, AND the youngest. He completed his flight on June 27, 2007, logging 26,800 miles in 97 days with 26 stops in 12 countries. (A 22-year old Swiss pilot broke his record for youngest in 2012, but Barrington is still the youngest Black pilot.) Wow!

[Namita Mehra · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved this beautifully written book by Chana about the inspiring Barrington Irving. I love the choice of words and sparse text that tell so much! I learned so much about Barrington's heroic efforts and determination and really enjoyed the back matter as well. The illustrations are wonderful and true to life. A great story for young readers to be inspired by-- not just for children interested in aviation this one has great universal appeal! Highly recommend!

[Sue Macy · Rating 5 out of 5]

As someone who grew up admiring Amelia Earhart, I was thrilled to learn about Barrington Irving, another real-life, daring pilot who added his achievement to the aviation record books. His historic flight was fairly recent--it took place in 2007--and what he has done since in teaching and inspiring kids to learn to fly is impressive. The back matter of the book highlights some of his other accomplishments. Since he's only 41, it will be exciting to see what he does next.

[Michal Babay · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow wow wow! This whole book is an inspiration! We loved learning the true story of Barrington Irving's life and reading about how he followed his dreams. Every educator, librarian, and parents needs to share this book with young readers! After all, Irving himself says, "“Just take the first step. Whether you trip or stumble, you’re still moving forward.”

[Lydia Lukidis · Rating 5 out of 5]

What an exhilarating read! LET'S FLY weaves the tale of Barrington Irving whose sights were on on football, until he meets a Black pilot. He starts to wonder...can he also become a pilot? Through hard work and determination, he does just that and becomes the first Black pilot to journey across the world.

[Stephanie Wildman · Rating 5 out of 5]

Soar with Barrington Irving and Chana Stiefel to learn how Irving became the youngest person and first Black man to fly solo around the world. Children and adults will admire his grit, courage, and invention. Readable backmatter adds depth to the story, all gorgeously illustrated by Shamar Knight-Justice

[Alicia · Rating 4 out of 5]

Celebrating Irving's daring and adventure as the youngest and first Black man to fly solo around the world in a plane he built named the Inspiration, this memoir can pair with a quick video about how he wanted to inspire others with his own feat.

STEM forward and all about overcoming fear and obstacles, he did what spoke to him which was to forgo a football scholarship and get into aviation.

[mdc · Rating 5 out of 5]

Author and subject team up to tell the story of the first Black man to fly solo around the world in crisp, evocative language. Barrington Irving's can-do spirit comes through on every page. The illustrations are lovely and add emotional resonance to the story.

[Rosanne Kurstedt · Rating 5 out of 5]

What an inspirational story, told expertly by Barrington Irving and Chana Stiefel. The text mirrors the anticipation and excitement of Irving's dream, tenacity, and ultimate success. There's even a bit of humor. I love the back matter and especially the "Yeah, I said that" quotes in the end.

[Mary · Rating 4 out of 5]

This picture book autobiography is intended to inspire young people to pursue their dreams.
Use for career emphasis, Black History Month, and SEL focus on perseverance, hard work, and passing along kindnesses.

[Jessica Stremer · Rating 5 out of 5]

Fun, engaging, inspirational ... this book has it all! A must have for any school or home library.

[Kari Gonzalez · Rating 5 out of 5]

Imagination and triumph soar in this inspiring story of grit and perseverance. I highly recommend it.