Dancing in the Sky

Dundurn Press, 2009

ISBN 978-1-55002-864-5

Soft cover, 358 pages

Price: $30 ORDER HERE

 By C. W. Hunt

 Dancing in the Sky is the first complete telling of the First Word War fighter-pilot-training initiative established by the British in response to the terrible losses occurring in the skies over Europe in 1916. This program, up and running in less than six months despite enormous obstacles, launched Canada into the age of flight ahead of the United States.

The results enabled the Allies to regain control of the skies and eventually win the war, but at a terrible price. Flying was in its infancy and pilot training was primitive. This is the story of the talented and courageous men and women who made the training program a success, complete with the romance, tragedy, humour and pathos that accompanies an account of such heroic proportions. A valuable addition to Canada’s military history, Dancing in the Skywill appeal to all who enjoy an exceptional adventure embedded in Canada’s past.

Cover photo: First graduating class, Camp Borden, May 1917. Courtesy Department of National Defence Archives RE-19011.