Dreams Take Flight: The Story of Deaf Pilot Nellie Zabel Willhite

by Brittany Richman, Alisha Monnin (illustrator)

Nellie Zabel Willhite's story dips and soars like an airplane in flight.


After losing her hearing at four and following a tumultuous education, Nellie Zabel was introduced to the world of flight while working at the Sioux Falls airport. The planes and pilots captured her imagination as she watched them sail alongside the birds. With some encouragement, she enrolled in pilot training--carefully tailoring the courses to accommodate her deafness. In 1928, she took off on her own, becoming the first female pilot in South Dakota--and the first deaf pilot in the nation.


This Own Voices, Own Stories Award winning book tells Nellie's story from the perspective of an author with a hearing loss and is supported by Easterseals.

Genres: Picture Books, Biography

37 pages, Kindle Edition

Published August 1, 2025

Reviews

[Kathy MacMillan · Rating 5 out of 5]

This lovely nonfiction picture book tells the true story of Nellie Zabel Willhite, who became the first licensed deaf pilot in the US. The world was far from accommodating when she was growing up as a deaf child in the early 1900s, but with a combination of her own persistence and the support of caring adults, she got an education and found a job. But when she finally took the flying lessons she had been dreaming of, her life took off. This story features an inspiring woman at its center, but it is also a great discussion-starter about intersectional identities and the various barriers that marginalized people throughout history have faced.

[Kathy Temean · Rating 5 out of 5]

Dreams of Flight is a heartfelt children’s book that celebrates imagination, determination, and the courage to dream big. Brittany has crafted a story that not only entertains but also inspires young readers to believe in themselves and their possibilities.

Brittany’s prose is gentle yet empowering, perfectly suited for children while still resonating with adults. The narrative balances whimsy with meaningful themes, making it both engaging and thought-provoking. The natural pacing allows readers to savor the journey without losing momentum.

Alisha Minnon’s artwork complements the text beautifully, adding layers of emotion and wonder. The colors and the images she used evokes a sense of uplift and possibility, reinforcing the book’s central message.

I love how this story highlights the importance of self-belief and the joy of exploration. From my time teaching children,I know kids embrace books that encourage them to persevere and when they do, their creativity side will emerge.

Dreams of Flight is more than a story—it’s an invitation for children to see themselves as capable of soaring beyond limits. Richman’s work stands out as both inspiring and accessible, making it a wonderful addition to any child’s library. Teachers and Parents will immediately see that this book is a valuable tool for sparking conversations about dreams, goals, and resilience.

What I love most is how Brittany found a true story and used the airplane in Dreams of Flight as a metaphor that speaks to believing in your self. It’s not just about flying—it’s about daring to imagine a future where children can embrace their creativity and strength. Books like this open doors for conversations about diversity, empowerment, and the courage to dream big.

This book feels like a gift for families, teachers, and librarians who want to inspire children to believe in themselves. Richman has created a story that is both tender and transformative, one that belongs on every child’s shelf. Teachers and Parents will enjoy The Back Material Brittany shared at the end of the book where she talks about her research and more detailed information about Nellie Zabel. I always love reading about new little known women who are so inspiring.

Brittany Richman’s Dreams of Flight is a luminous story that reminds us how powerful imagination can be. At its heart, this book encourages children to see themselves as capable of soaring beyond limits, even when challenges arise.

[Hailey Vittrup · Rating 5 out of 5]

*I received this book as a DRC. I did not know that in the early 1900s, deaf schools did not allow children to use sign language. This was because teachers thought that it was hindering and not helping them. How sad. Nellie Zabel Willhite may not have been able to hear after the age of four, but she did not let that stop her from seeking to accomplish her dream of flying. In fact, she became the first female pilot in South Dakota! She was unable to hear her flight instructor's directions, and the first time that she took the wheel in the plane, it was snowing! Then, she successfully completed her first solo flight. "She was now the first deaf licensed pilot in the entire country." This is a beautiful and inspirational true story.

[Joy · Rating 5 out of 5]

A great picture book for any age about a deaf woman who dreamed she could do anything. This is a true story and very inspiring.

[Mike Candrian · Rating 5 out of 5]

Fun read for anyone who says they can’t do something that is hard. Well written with fun illustrations.

[Chrisanne · Rating 4 out of 5]

I loved this book. Now I'm off to see what else I can find out about her. And the illustrations, particularly the way they were framed, were lovely!