Stories of Flying
#2 of 38 in Usborne young reading. Series four
What’s inside...
Lesley Sims' 'Stories of Flying' is an anthology of short stories that explore the wonders and challenges of flight from various perspectives. The book includes tales of fantasy and reality, aiming to inspire readers of all ages by highlighting the thrill and freedom of flying. It also selectively summarizes the history of flight, covering planes, balloons, helicopters, and the beginnings of space travel.
Discussion points
What did you think about the different ways characters in the book flew? Which way would you like to try?
How do you think the characters felt when they were up in the air?
Can you think of a time when you tried something new like the characters did? How did it feel?
What would you do if you could fly for a day?
Why is working together important when trying something new, like the characters did in the stories?
Tip: Role play these questions
Use a warm and curious tone to invite open-ended conversations.
Encourage your child to describe scenes from the book, focusing on how the characters might have felt during their adventures.
Link the story to your child’s personal experiences, asking them to compare their feelings and reactions.
Discuss the moral lessons in the story, emphasizing teamwork and courage.
Ask your child to imagine their own flying adventure, helping them connect creatively with the theme of the book.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Courage and trying new things
Explanation: In 'Stories of Flying,' various characters embark on aerial adventures, showcasing bravery and a willingness to try new activities.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson by embracing new experiences at school or in play, helping them to grow more confident and adventurous.
Example Lesson: Problem-solving
Explanation: The characters in the book often face challenges while flying, which they overcome through creative thinking and teamwork.
Real-World Application: This teaches children to approach obstacles in their lives with a problem-solving mindset, whether it’s dealing with a difficult puzzle or resolving a disagreement with a friend.
Example Lesson: Importance of teamwork
Explanation: Many stories in the book highlight characters working together to navigate their flying journeys successfully.
Real-World Application: This lesson can help children understand the value of collaborating with others to achieve common goals in group projects or team sports.
Example Lesson: Persistence
Explanation: Characters in the book frequently encounter setbacks during their flights but continue to persevere until they succeed.
Real-World Application: Children learn the importance of persistence in achieving their own goals, like mastering a new skill or completing a challenging school assignment.
Example Lesson: Respect for nature and environment
Explanation: Throughout their flying adventures, characters learn about and interact with different environmental elements, promoting a respect for nature.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to be mindful of their environment, fostering a sense of responsibility towards nature through activities like recycling or caring for plants.