" In 1924 the U.S. Army sent eight young men on a bold attempt to be the first to circumnavigate the globe by flight. Men from five other countries--Great Britain, France, Portugal, Italy, and Argentina--had the same goal, and so the quest became a race. Who would win?"--Jacket. An account of the 1924 race between six nations to be the first to circumnavigate the globe by airplane describes the efforts of the U.S. team as they struggled to overcome limited technology, dangerous weather, and unfamiliar cultures.

"Published in association with the Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum.".

Journey of the world flight map -- The journey begins -- Planning the trip -- Fierce winds in Alaska -- Disaster on the mountain -- First across the Pacific -- Colorful Japan -- Mechanical trouble in Indochina -- The heat of India -- A grand welcome in Paris -- Meeting royalty in Great Britain -- Plane in danger -- Icebergs and fog -- The welcoming crowds of North America -- Journey's end.