In 1949, The Jewish community of Yemen understood that they could no longer survive surrounded by enemies. They knew that the time had come to emigrate to their ancient homeland of Israel. The people had always clung to the biblical promise that someday they would return to Israel on the wings of eagles. Those wings turned out to be the gleaming silver wings of a plane operated by Alaska Airlines and manned by an extraordinary pilot named Warren and his crew.
Warren saw the terror on the faces of his passengers and realized that none of them had ever seen an airplane before. He wisely painted the picture of an eagle on the body of the aircraft to connect it to the dearly held prophecy, thereby reducing his passengers’ fears. But the families’ reactions were only part of the challenge. Warren and his crew faced threats and promises of terror from Arab soldiers determined to stop the flight. He bravely persisted in his rescue mission earning the thanks and appreciation of the families on board.
An author’s note tells the history of this courageous mission known as Operation Eagles’ Wings or Operation Magic Carpet. Alaska Airlines operated 430 flights bringing 49,000 Jewish refugees from Yemen to Israel during 1940 – 1950. This endeavor was sponsored and developed by the American Jewish Joint Distribution Committee. Black-and-white photographs of the operation accompany this fascinating historical note. A short biographical note about the participants of the story and a glossary of terms are also included.
This is a suspenseful and well-told tale based on a true chapter in Jewish history. It is accompanied by softly colored, richly detailed illustrations that help bring this magical story alive for young readers today.
Michal Hoschander Malen is the editor of Jewish Book Council’s young adult and children’s book reviews. A former librarian, she has lectured on topics relating to literacy, run book clubs, and loves to read aloud to her grandchildren.
