In 1948, Jews in Yemen were in danger. Across the world, pilots for Alaska Airlines answered the call for help, transporting nearly 50,000 people to Israel.
National Jewish Book Award Finalist
"Suspenseful and well told."—Jewish Book Council
"Excellent job...good as a read-aloud or for beginning readers." —Historical Novel Society
Based on real events, this picture book for ages 5-8 dramatizes the story of young Haila, a Yemenite girl, who with her family was airlifted to safety by Alaska Airlines pilot Warren Metzger during Operation Magic Carpet, an international effort that rescued nearly 50,000 Jews from the dangers of Yemen in 1949 and 1950.
“You saw what I did to the Egyptians, and how I carried you on eagles' wings to bring you to me.” —Exodus 19:4
It's not safe for Haila and her family in Yemen anymore. They've been promised they will be carried to safety on the wings of eagles. But time is running short as they wait for help.
On the other side of the world, Warren is a pilot for Alaska Airlines. When he receives a telegram asking to aid the Jews fleeing Yemen, he knows he has to take the risk and do what he can to help.
After a long journey to Aden, a port city where they were to go to leave Yemen, Haila and her family are scared to see an airplane for the first time. Where are the eagles that were supposed to fly them to Israel? Warren needs to show everyone that they're safe, and hopefully, his plan will work.
