Seized by the Sun

Seized by the Sun introduces teens to the remarkable life of Gertrude “Tommy” Tompkins, who overcame many challenges to find her passion in flying. She became one of 126 elite women chosen to pilot World War II fighter planes for the Women’s Airforce Service Pilots (WASPs). Her dissappearance remains a mystery and no crash site was ever found. The result of sixteen years of research and interviews, Seized by the Sun is an invaluable addition to any student’s or history buff’s bookshelf.

“Seized by the Sun is a compelling slice of Americana and a wonderfully detailed glimpse at life in the WASPs from the perspective of a privileged yet tortured young woman.” —Kathryn J. Atwood, author of Women Heroes of World War II

“Part concise history of the WASPs and part unsolved mystery, Seized by the Sun is a long-overdue tribute to a determined and talented young woman as her identity changes from a shy and stuttering society girl to a confident military pilot. A deftly reported, shining portrait of an inspirational woman.” —Elizabeth Wein, award-winning author of Code Name Verity and Rose Under Fire