Flying

Donald Crews' "Flying" is a classic picture book that invites young readers on a serene journey through the skies. The book's narrative is simple, following an airplane as it travels across various American landscapes, from bustling cities and winding highways to vast rivers and towering mountains. Crews' signature bold, graphic illustrations are central to the experience, using vibrant colors and clear lines to depict the world from an aerial perspective. This book is not about a specific plot or character, but rather an observational experience, making it ideal for fostering a sense of wonder and curiosity about the world. It handles the concept of flight and geography in a gentle, accessible way, without any sensitive topics. The emotional arc is consistently calm and uplifting, designed to evoke a sense of peaceful exploration. "Flying" is particularly well-suited for preschoolers and early elementary children (ages 4-8) who are curious about airplanes, travel, or simply enjoy looking at different landscapes. A parent might reach for this book to prepare a child for their first airplane trip, to discuss different geographical features, or as a calming bedtime story. No specific preparation is needed from parents, as the book is straightforward and visually driven. Younger children will be captivated by the bright pictures and the idea of flying, while older children might engage more with identifying the different types of landforms. Its distinctive artistic style and focus on the simple beauty of aerial observation set it apart from more narrative-driven books about travel or vehicles.