The Spirit of St. Louis, an autobiography written by Reeve Lindbergh, is a compelling account of her famous father's historic flight across the Atlantic Ocean in 1927. The book chronicles Charles Lindbergh's journey in his famous single-seat airplane, the Spirit of St. Louis, and his triumphant flight to fame and celebrity.
In The Spirit of St. Louis, Reeve Lindbergh looks back to her father's record-breaking journey and the effect it had on American culture. She begins by introducing the key figures in the story and setting the stage for Charles Lindbergh's epic journey. We learn about the adventurous young aviator who set out to be the first to fly solo and nonstop from New York to Paris. At the time, it was considered an almost impossible feat.
The book then brings us along through Charles Lindbergh's preparation and the 33-hour flight he took in his custom designed plane, the Spirit of St. Louis. As the plane reached its destination, Charles Lindbergh had become a national hero and he was later awarded the Congressional Medal of Honor.
Reeve Lindbergh describes the immense impact her father had on her family and on the nation. Her parents' marriage and the values they instilled in their children gave Reeve a deep appreciation of the importance of self-sufficiency and faith in one's own ability. Charles' example of following his own instincts, combined with his daring and innovative spirit, spurred on a new wave of aviation enthusiasm.
Reeve also shares her personal thoughts about growing up with an American icon for a father. While Charles was busy setting records and gaining international fame, Reeve was at home in the American countryside raising her own family. Through her anecdotes, we learn about the personal side of Charles Lindbergh, the complicated and often contradictory feelings Reeve experienced as an adult, and her own experiences of growing up surrounded by fame and celebrity.
The Spirit of St. Louis is an inspiring and heartwarming tale of perseverance, courage, and adventure. Charles Lindbergh's extraordinary accomplishments and Reeve Lindbergh's personal reflections provide a timeless glimpse into the spirit of human endeavor. It's a journey that is both inspirational and captivating, and one that will leave readers feeling inspired and hopeful.
