Across The Desert

Marty and Jo walk along the road toward the Flipside Café. As they get near it, Jo sees a landing strip and a small airplane close by. A few other buildings and an RV park are situated near the café as well. The heat is already intense. Marty attempts to engage Jo in conversation about her mother, but Jo evades the questions and thinks about Addie’s courage.

This chapter begins with direct messages from “12 Days Ago” (153). Addie is excited that Joanie Cash, the first female commercial airline pilot, replied to a letter she sent. The girls tell each other they are smart enough to accomplish anything, but Jo insists that her opportunities are limited because she cannot afford a good education.

The server welcomes Jo and Marty. They order, and Jo plugs in the phone. Feeling queasy and lightheaded from the heat, she refills the jug in the restroom. When Jo sees a map of the area on the wall, she adjusts her original map. An older woman comments on Jo’s talent, saying Jo could be an artist. While Marty is in the bathroom, the woman leaves, thanking the server. The server replies, “Thanks for coming in, Joanie. […] Fly safe” (165).