Hardit Singh Malik: World War One Flying Ace (Voices)
A new title in the Voices series which aims to bring attention to authentic, unsung stories. This is the eighth in the series written by a diverse range of writers (see HNR 104, A Different Kind of Freedom by Romani author Richard O’Neill) and the second by Bali Rai whose earlier book was from the viewpoint of a young Indian soldier in World War Two. Here he tells the story of Hardit Singh Malik, who became a pilot in World War One.
Readers are drawn straight in by Hardit describing a mission moment by moment as he flies a Sopwith Camel under German fire. He then goes back in time to evoke, using all the senses, his privileged childhood in a wealthy Sikh family in Rawalpindi, and we gain a brief insight into how a love of kite flying inspired his later interest in flying planes.
In 1908, aged 14, Hardit travels alone to England to join his brother to continue his education, where his experiences are broadly positive, although he faces prejudice and racism from some quarters. This is exacerbated when World War One begins, as Hardit wishes to enlist and is not allowed to do so in Britain. A contact enables him to join the French Red Cross, initially as an ambulance driver. He is later offered training as a pilot, and at this point the British authorities at last become convinced that he be allowed to join the Royal Flying Corps after all, and Hardit becomes their first Indian pilot.
This novel for around age 9+ is based on true life and includes references to real people such as Princess Sophia Duleep Singh (The Royal Rebel by Bali Rai – see HNR 100). An excellent addition to this important series.
