The Hallelujah Flight by Phil Bildner

The Hallelujah Flight, written by Phil Bildner, illustrated by John Holyfield, 2010, New York: G.P. Putnam's Sons (978-0-399-24789-7)

Awards: Texas Bluebonnet Awards
Author Website: http://philbildner.com
Illustrator Website: http://holyfieldstudio.com
Media Used: Acrylics on canvas

Annotation:
In this story, two young African American men embark on a daring journey across the country in an old airplane.  With help from nice people on the way, the men become the first African Americans to make a transcontinental flight.  

Personal Reaction:
This book featured a very uplifting story.  I liked the fact that the boys were determined to fly their plane, and that they did not give up.  They received help along the way with repairs and food.  I cannot imagine that happening today.  This book is a reminder of friendliness that used to be common place.

Detailed Description of Art:
The art in this book has a very finished appearance.  The colors are bright and the pictures are full of detail.  The artist took great care when working on the facial expressions of the characters.  The detail of the facial expressions is very noticeable, and helps tell the story.  When the characters land in a familiar state and get help from family and friends, the illustrator adds extra bright colors to convey the happy feeling of the occasion. 

Published 2010/2011