Description
This high-octane middle-grade graphic novel set in two timelines tells the hidden history of the first female racecar driver to race in the Indy 500 and follows a spunky twelve-year-old mechanic discovering that history while restoring a vintage Jaguar. In an empowering, thrilling story, they navigate sexism and break barriers, showing what can be accomplished with passion, focus, and drive.
START YOUR ENGINES!
In 1964, Janet Guthrie is about to become one of the most successful female race car drivers in history-the first ever to qualify for and race in the Indianapolis 500. But the road ahead of her will not be easy. She'll have to drive with broken bones and in rickety cars, while constantly proving to the press and the racing world that she's every bit as good as the men on the track.
In 2019, twelve-year-old Alex finds a vintage Jaguar her grandfather never finished restoring. It's a dream come true for a "car girl," and she dives into teaching herself how to repair and restore it-with the help of her favorite mechanic's videos. Alex's father thinks she's wasting her time, and the local car community isn't eager to welcome a girl. But there's a car show coming up, and Alex is determined to prove her skills.
No matter what gets in their way, Janet and Alex are passionate trailblazers who know that the only way forward is to keep your foot on the gas.
Review
This is an inspirational historically-based graphic novel about women breaking down barriers to compete in the male dominated world of motor sports.
Set in alternating chapters, this is a wonderful graphic novel highlighting women in motor sports. The first chapter looks at the incredible life of Janet Guthrie who, against all odds and many critics, achieved success in the 1960’s and 70’s.
The alternating chapters show Alex, a teenage girl whose grandfather was obsessed with motor cars, who is living on his old farm and restoring his old Jaguar. Her hero is Janet Guthrie, and Alex dreams of following in Janet’s footsteps and racing herself one day.
With a lovely twist at the end, this is a terrific graphic novel showing the difficulties that people have to endure to get a fair go, particularly girls who compete in what has traditionally been a male pursuit. It is an ideal read for those in lower secondary.
