Today's PPBF pick has springtime written all over it.
Title: For Those Who Want To Fly
Author and Illustrator: Pirkko Vainio
Publisher: Clavis Books
Date: May 1, 2009
Original language: Dutch
Suitable for: ages 7 and up
Genre: inspirational, philosophical
Themes: goals, perseverance, philosophy
Brief Synopsis (from inside the jacket): To live is a bit like flying. It isn't automatic; you have to learn how. This is the perfect book of philosophical advice for those who want to fly through life.
Opening Page: Each of us have our own way of facing the world.
Resources: Read all about it at Amazon {here}
Why I like this book: This inspirational little jewel is so unlike the other books I've recommended for PPBF because there isn't really a story line, just a series of sayings as the duckling travels through his days. But the beautiful watercolor images of this fledging baby as he learns to fly have simply stolen my heart and the words are so powerful that I couldn't help but share.
Here are some sample thoughts from the text:
 |
| Isn't this just the cutest thing? |
Happy moments make our feet feel like flowers.
Fighting for our freedom develops all our capabilities.
Letting go consciously teaches us
the precious art of landing.
the precious art of landing.
How would I enrich this book?
After reading it aloud, let the kids select their favorite page and talk about what the words of wisdom really mean, not just to the adorable duckling in the book, but to the reader. Then I'd ask them to bring the text to life by illustrating it on a poster board using a scene from their own lives to create a motivational poster {think Argus}. Have students write a persuasive paragraph to the Principal to get permission to put the posters up all around your campus, then share them with your school family by inviting the other classes to take a gallery walk to be positively uplifted and inspired.
Do you have a book that you'd like to share?
Check out Susanna Leonard Hill's blog {here}.
You are right, Barbara...this does remind me of Spring. So lighthearted and bright!
ReplyDeleteIt is a bright book indeed ... thanks for stopping by the Corner!
DeleteThat looks and sounds so poetic, what a lovely book!
ReplyDeleteIt's one of those books that you might miss if you didn't delve in and experience its loveliness! So glad you came by, Catherine.
DeleteI love inspiration books for children.. This one does sound like a gem. Especially with your recommended activities with kids. We've been taught to use a formula, but sometimes the best books are quiet, peaceful and contemplative. Great idea to share wisdom because they do "get it." Thanks for sharing!
ReplyDeleteHi Pat - you and I do seem to have VERY similar tastes in children's literature. And don't we just revel in the moment when kids "get it"!
DeleteYes, it is the cutest thing!
ReplyDeleteSeriously, Julie - each page is cuter than the next as this little fella attempts flight. Thanks for stopping by!
DeleteOooh, it's just so sweet!
ReplyDeleteYes, Barb, it is AdOrAbLe ... and I think your firsties would totally connect with this little feathered fledgling on many levels!
DeleteWhat a sweet little duck! It looks like a ballerina. I think I'd like to find this book! Thanks!
ReplyDeleteYes, a little dancing duck, trying out his feathers for the first time. I hope you can find a copy, Rhythm; you will undoubtedly eat this little fella up!!
DeleteWhat a fun springtime book. Just the cover alone looks so inspirational. Thanks for sharing, I have never heard of Clavis books.
ReplyDeleteIt's a treasure, Miranda. Positively inspiration and full of wisdom. And I hadn't heard of Clavis books before this title flew into my hands either. Thanks for stopping at the Corner for a spell!
DeleteWhat a lovely sounding book -- and fantastic ideas for enhancing the meaning for kids!
ReplyDeleteThank you, Beth, for your kind affirmations. I thrive on making books come alive for kids (although this one didn't need much help!). I'm thrilled that you made a Sunday stop at the Corner.
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