Review: Old Bird: The Irrepressible Mrs Hewlitt, by Gail Hewlitt

In 1911 Hilda Hewlitt became the first British Woman to obtain a Private Pilot's Licence. This new biography tells her fascinating story.

(The review below is written by Helen Krasner, who has led a fascinating life as well. Check it out at http://www.suite101.com/profile.cfm/whirlygirl.

Next year, 2011, represents an important anniversary for anyone interested in the history of aviation. For in 1911 Hilda B. Hewlitt became the first British woman to learn to fly and gain a pilot’s licence. So who was Hilda Hewlitt? “Old Bird”, written by Gail Hewlitt, who is married to the early aviatrix’s grandson, explains all.

Hilda Hewlitt’s Early Life
Born Hilda Beatrice Herbert, on 17th February 1864, the future record breaker was one of nine children. Always known as Billy, she was an adventurous child, particularly for that time. She learned to ride a bicycle and later drove a car and entered automobile rallies, activities which were considered highly daring for a woman of her day. In 1888 she married Maurice Hewlitt, and the couple had a son and a daughter. Maurice had been a lawyer, but aspired to be a romantic novelist and gradually became more and more successful.

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