Book Reviewed by Sofia Burgess

The saying “Behind every great man is a woman” certainly rings true of Katharine Wright - the sister of Wilbur and Orville Wright. This insightful biography reveals to us the life of an independent, intelligent and capable young woman who helped the famous Wright brothers with their progress in the development of the airplane.

Richard Maurer presents a behind-the-scenes look at the dedication and involvement of the Wright sister. Katharine Wright was the youngest sister of four brothers and the only sibling to earn a college degree. She became involved in her brothers experimental endeavors from the moment they achieved their first flight at Kitty Hawk. In subsequent years she accompanied her brothers to Europe to help with their social engagements and obligations while they demonstrated their flying machines in France and Italy.

As a graduate and later a trustee of Oberline College, Katharine used her knowledge and position to lobby for women’s rights. She gave up her work as a teacher to help care for her brothers and their growing responsibilities as the pioneers of flight. Katharine’s role in her brothers success was pivotal in the business and promotion of the airplanes that were produced as a result of Orville and Wilbur’s innovation.

The Wright Sister documents the Wright family life and provides intimate detail into the lives of its members. Much of the biography is based directly on the correspondences Katharine had with members of the Wright family, and with friends. The book creates an intriguing look at one of the twentieth century’s greatest technical achievements, and the family which made it possible.