Cloud Clippers is the story of a daring woman who lived her aviation and travel dreams. Included are Marie's flight logs, photos, articles, and stories. A fierce feminist before there was such a designation, Marie's voice shines bright.
Assessment:
Plot/Idea: Madigan tells the story of a trailblazing woman pilot who lived life on her own terms. Madigan vividly details the events of Hubert's life and accomplishments, while providing a clear sense of the era and the challenges facing women at the time.
Prose: Madigan's writing is solidly constructed and clear, but the narrative can sometimes come across as a long list of Hubert's accomplishments and actions rather than a story with dramatic elements. The photos are terrific, and the subject is remarkable, but the work would benefit from additional commentary by her peers or family members to make it more engaging.
Originality: Cloud Clippers tells the unique story of the author's mother and her unorthodox journey.
Character/Execution: The focus here is exclusively on the titular subject and her many accomplishments. While she does emerge as a fascinating figure, readers may struggle to gain a true sense of her interior life.
Date Submitted: January 19, 2023
