Press Release

Mayor launches Story of Amelia Earhart novel

Tuesday 9th October 2007

The Mayor, Alderman Drew Thompson will officially launch a new novel based on the life of Amelia Earhart, entitled The Story of Amelia Earhart.

This graphic depiction of the life of one of history’s most pioneering female pilots has been provided by local city based writer Felicity McCall, with illustrations provided by local artist Joe Campbell. The information for the book was compiled through the Greater Shantallow Community Arts group to acknowledge the 75th anniversary of Amelia Earhart’s unscheduled landing at Ballyarnett in May, 1932.

Speaking ahead of the launch, the Mayor paid tribute to all contributors who have helped to keep the memory of Amelia Earhart very much alive.

“I am delighted to have the opportunity to launch this beautifully-crafted novel which has recorded the day when the Ballyarnett area gained its place in aviation history. This is the latest in a number of initiatives that Greater Shantallow Community Arts group have been involved in to celebrate the 75th anniversary of her transatlantic flight. Told in an entertaining and accurate form, this story will help keep the memory of Amelia Earhart alive.”

Amelia Earhart intended to fly from Newfoundland to Paris and took off in a single-engined Lockheed Vega aircraft from Harbour Grace in Newfoundland on the 20th of May 1932. She landed on the 21st of May 1932, some 14 hours and 56 minutes later on farmland at Ballyarnet on the northern edge of the city.

The Story of Amelia Earhart includes accurate details of this historic journey including research from contemporary records and newspapers as well as from Ms Earhart’s own diaries. The geography and topography of the spot where she touched down is also drawn from life.

It’s intended that this format, which is increasingly popular with young readers, will make Amelia’s story a welcome addition to the classroom and ensure her story continues to live in our folk memory.

To obtain a copy of the Story of Amelia Earhart please contact the Greater Shantallow Community Arts at 028 71 357443.

ENDS

For additional information contact:

Press Office

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