RADAR GIRLS by Sara Ackerman
More than just a pleasure read, Sara Ackerman’s RADAR GIRLS opens the door to reflection concerning gender roles, the significance of historical technological development, and what it means to work together. The story details the fictional life of Daisy Wilder in Hawaii following the bombing of Pearl Harbour during WWII, focusing on her peer relationships and contributions to the implementation of radar detection. Daisy’s actions force readers to ask themselves what it means to be true to oneself, how to maintain integrity, and what they value most. Although readers will be likely to gobble up the story stuffed with humour, emotion, and basted in romance faster than last Thanksgiving’s turkey; it also presents a greater opportunity to extend readers’ learning. Suitable for high school student learning, RADAR GIRLS offers cross-curricular applications including history (WWII), civics and history (evolution of gender roles and women’s rights), with the potential for some science and technology (function and application of radar technology). On a beach, to pass the time on a road trip, cozied up on your sofa, or in classroom student centers, this novel is thoroughly enjoyable and a worthwhile read.
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