West to the Sunrise

Iowa State Press [Published Date: 1980]. Hardcover, 209 pp. Stated First Edition, 1980. Black and white photo reproductions. [From front jacket flap] FRACE HARRIS is one of those rare people who made her dreams become a reality. Ever since her first exposure to airplanes ? a ride with a barnstorming pilot in a World War I "Jenny"-the thrill of flight has never left her. That initial night was only the start of an adventurous life and illustrious career not only in aviation, but also ballooning, motor racing, and business. Her experiences, as told in West to the Sunrise, provide fascinating reading and present a firsthand story of aviation from Pearl Harbor to the present. Harris recalls all the tension and drama of airplane racing. She describes her feelings after winning the Kendall trophy at the 1948 National Air Races for women in Cleveland and then repeating her victory in 1949. She also introduces the reader to such aviation notables as Jimmy Doolittle, Jacqueline Cochran, and Arlene Davis. Joining the Sports Car Club in 1955, Hams drove an English Elva MKII and an Italian Maserati 200 S to the championship of the women's division Midwest Region in 1958, 1959 and 1960. Another part of her life was spent amid the smoke and noise of competitive auto racing in such places as England, the French Riviera, and Monte Carlo. Also, Harris was the first F.A.A.-licensed woman balloonist in the United States. Anyone who has ever risen in a hot air balloon or wished they could will enjoy her vivid portrayal. West to the Sunrise is a true-to-life adventure story as told by a champion woman pilot and racing car driver. Aviation and auto racing buffs of all ages will enjoy her captivating tales^that span an era of rapid development of our flying and driving machines.