I Wanted to Be a Pilot

One of the original Tuskegee Airmen tells his remarkable story of childhood struggle, relentless perseverance and living his dream in this YA memoir.

As a black child growing up in 1920s Colorado, Frank Macon was often told that he would never amount to anything. His severe dyslexia didn’t help, nor did his tendency for mischief. But in spite of all that, Frank rose to heights beyond anyone’s imagining. Ever since childhood—when he jumped off a roof wearing homemade wings—he wanted to be a pilot. In this inspiring memoir, Frank tells his story of achieving that dream.

As one of the few surviving Documented Original Tuskegee Airmen, Frank’s story offers a personal look at an important episode in American history. It is also an incredible story of resilience and determination that encourages kids to recognize history, believe in themselves, and never give up on their dreams.