RAPID CITY, S.D. — A new children’s book, “Dreams Take Flight: The Story of Deaf Pilot Nellie Zabel Willhite,” shares the life of South Dakota’s first female pilot and the nation’s first deaf pilot. The book, which is now available, was written by Brittany Richman, a resident of the Black Hills.
The story follows Nellie Zabel Willhite, who lost her hearing at age four and later became intrigued by flight while working at the Sioux Falls airport. With some encouragement, she enrolled in pilot training, adapting the courses for her deafness. She took her first solo flight in 1928, making her the first female pilot in South Dakota and the first deaf pilot in the nation.
Richman, who has been partially deaf since childhood, was inspired to write the book after seeing a photo of Willhite at a local airport in South Dakota. The book is a recipient of the Own Voices, Own Stories Award, and is supported by Easterseals, a nonprofit organization that provides services to people with disabilities. Richman, who lives in the Black Hills with her family, hopes the story will inspire children to see their potential for greatness.