America's World War I flying ace, winner of the Medal of Honor, and racecar driver Eddie Rickenbacker's first attempt at flight was riding his bicycle off the roof while holding an umbrella. Young Eddie, whose parents were Swiss immigrants, grew up in the Midwest in the early 20th century, worked hard to help support his family, but found time to build a “pushmobile," experience a thrilling ride in a “horseless carriage," and come face-to-face with a moving train. Young readers will gasp as he rides a runaway mining cart that jumps the tracks and cheer at Eddie's first auto racing victory. Included are fun facts about Eddie Rickenbacker's life and the America he grew up in.