America's Girl: The Incredible Story of How Swimmer Gertrude Ederle Changed the Nation

by Tim Dahlberg, Mary Ederle Ward, Brenda Greene

America’s Girl is an intimate look at the life and trials of Gertrude Ederle, who in 1926 not only became the first woman to swim across the English Channel, but broke the record set by men. The feat so thrilled America that it welcomed her home with a ticker tape parade that drew two million people. This fascinating portrait follows Ederle from her early days as a competitive swimmer through her gold medal triumph at the 1924 Olympics, to the first attempt the next year by Ederle to swim from France to England in frigid and turbulent waters, a feat that had been conquered by only five men up to that time.

This is also a stirring look at the go-go era of the 1920s, when the country was about to recognize that women not only could vote, but compete on an international scale as athletes. At the height of Prohibition, Ederle’s triumph over the formidable Channel was a triumph for women everywhere.



America’s Girl immerses readers in a pivitol era of American history and brings to life the spirit of that time.

Genres: Nonfiction, History, Biography

304 pages, Hardcover

First published August 4, 2009

Reviews

[Meg · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love this book! I shed a tear at the end. A great tale about her life, and pursuit of the channel, and her reception as a great athlete. Also a sad commentary of how women in sport were used by managers at the time.

[Aileen15 · Rating 4 out of 5]

Ederle's story of being the first woman to swim the English channel and of smashing the men's record should be required reading for any female who played sports. It is a story of determination and courage and of triumphing against all odds. It is also a portrait of the climate of the 1920's, of the nation who fell in love with her and then fell away from her. Although the book could have been a little tighter, it is for the most part well written; containing information from the first hand source of Ederle's niece, it is well worth the read.

[Heather · Rating 4 out of 5]

An interesting story. She seemed like such a nice person that you couldn't help but root for her. I wished she'd had a happier life after the channel swim, but she seemed pretty satisfied for herself.

[Anne Bogel · Rating 3 out of 5]

I'm so glad I stumbled upon this biography, and can't believe I'd never heard of Ederle before! Fascinating story; plodding text. That's all I'm saying because I'm blogging it soon :)

[Bethgentner · Rating 4 out of 5]

Loved reading about the early days of long distance swimming before all the technological advancements (like goggles!).
The woman who accomplished all these feats is amazing, though SPOILER ALERT:





the story has a bit of a sad ending.

[Melanie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Why in all my years of schooling did they not teach us about this amazing athlete and female role model...loved learning about her dedication and the spice she displayed to swim the English Channel and beat the male record etc.

[Maria · Rating 5 out of 5]

Must read for any female athlete who wants to play professional sports. You've come a long way, baby. Gertrude Ederle was a pioneer and a superstar.

[Mum · Rating 3 out of 5]

Pretty good, I knew of this woman but not all this detail. Enjoyed it.

[MomofTeen · Rating 4 out of 5]

I was happy to learn more about this brave, plucky, delightful young woman. As a former swimmer, I cannot fathom her courage and endurance. She was made of much sterner stuff than me.

The 1920s are my favorite decade to explore and I’ve read much about the Lindbergh family and the Mitford sisters. I’m sad Ms. Eberle didn’t write more than the 66 pages used by the writers of this bio.

I’d like to read a revised edition that edits out all the repetitious facts and anecdotes. I’d also like to see an improved index with proper page references for each person.

[Catherine Johnson · Rating 3 out of 5]

EVERYONE LOVES WOMEN’S SPORTS😤😤

This is a story every swimmer or women’s sports fans should love to learn about. Trudy was a testament to perseverance.

The book itself is written very factual and straightforward which can be tedious to read. However, I’m so glad I know Trudy’s story.

[Jen · Rating 4 out of 5]

Fascinating book! Not the best written book, but Trudy's story is absolutely amazing.

[Maryann · Rating 5 out of 5]

Touching bio of a very determined and kinda athlete. Great read!!