Historical Fiction Explores Emancipation And Aviation Dreams

A new novel, ‘Quand leurs ailes seront déployées’ (When Their Wings Are Spread), tells the story of a young woman’s journey to become a pilot in 1937, set against the backdrop of World War II. The book features historical figures like Maryse Bastié and Maryse Hilsz, and explores themes of emancipation and social change. Written by Vincent J. Potier and published by Les Lauréats, the novel has won the 2025 Femme Actuelle Jury’s Choice Award. This story was first reported by Dassault Aviation.