Lady Icarus: Balloonomania and the Brief, Bold Life of Sophie Blanchard by Deborah Noyes
Published by Random House Studio on March 8, 2022
ISBN: 0593122038
Pages: 176
Format: Chapter Book Nonfiction
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This is a well-researched look at the hot-air balloon craze that started in France in 1783 and swept through Europe and the globe. It also specifically explores what is known of the life of “aeronaut” Sophie Blanchard, explaining how she grew to become a world-famous solo hot-air balloonist from very humble beginnings. At the height of her career, she was appointed the official aeronaut for both Napoleon and Louis the XVIII. Sophie Blanchard died tragically at the age of 41 in a ballooning accident over Paris.

The author clearly did extensive research. The book includes numerous black & white images (portraits, newspaper articles, flyers, etc.), as well as a timeline, bibliography, notes, and an index.

While this was not a typical read for me, I did find the subject very interesting. Particularly appreciated was the author’s introduction explaining the lack of information about Sophie Blanchard’s early life. This book would appeal to readers seeking biographies of daring women, as well as anyone interested in the origins of hot-air ballooning.

Reviewed by Crystal Wilder, USM, Gorham