Wilbur and Orville (1987) by Fred Howard is a comprehensive biography of aviation pioneers Wilbur and Orville Wright. The book emphasizes their scientific approach to flight, highlighting their significant contributions to aeronautical engineering despite lacking formal education in the field. It chronicles their journey from childhood, including their early fascination with flight sparked by a toy helicopter, to their groundbreaking achievements in aviation. The Wrights' persistence through failure and experimentation, particularly at Kitty Hawk, leads to the development of the first powered flight in 1903. The book also covers their efforts to patent their invention, defend it in court, and gain public recognition. After Wilbur’s death in 1912, Orville continued to promote their legacy, culminating in the eventual donation of their 1903 biplane to the Smithsonian in 1948.
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