The Lost Pilot
What’s inside...
In celebration of the 80th anniversary of The Little Prince, Antoine de Saint-Exupery’s classic children’s story, THE LOST PILOT is a full color, fully illustrated children's chapter book. Part homage and part biography, THE LOST PILOT is an exploration of how books inspire and why imagination is so important. When a traveler falls overboard during a terrible storm, he washes ashore on a deserted island. Thinking he is alone, he’s astonished when a pilot wanders into his camp and asks him to draw an airplane. As the two become friends, the lost pilot reveals a mission that sent him far, far away a long time ago, and his wish to return to this distant place among the stars. THE LOST PILOT is a tribute to one of the greatest books of all time, an exploration of why inspiration matters, and a testament to how important using your imagination really is – it can change the world!
Age
4-14
Length
84 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
How did you feel when the pilot was trying to find his way back? What would you do if you were in his place?
What do you think the animals in the story symbolize? How do these animals help the pilot?
What are some of the ways the pilot showed bravery? Can you think of a time when you were brave like him?
Why do you think the pilot got lost? How did he use his surroundings to guide him?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to express their feelings about the pilot’s journey and discuss similar experiences they've encountered.
Link the discussion to the symbolism of animals in the story, prompting your child to think about what each character might represent in their own lives.
Recognize moments where the pilot shows courage and relate them to real-life scenarios where your child needed to be brave.
Discuss strategies and decision-making by focusing on how the pilot used his surroundings to navigate, and ask your child how they might use their environment to solve problems.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Resilience in the face of adversity
Explanation: The story portrays the main character's journey through challenging circumstances, demonstrating perseverance and courage.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to face difficulties in their own lives with strength and not be easily discouraged.
Example Lesson: The importance of hope
Explanation: Throughout the narrative, hope is a central theme that motivates the characters to keep striving for their goals.
Real-World Application: This teaches children to maintain a positive outlook and to always have something to look forward to, even in tough times.
Example Lesson: Value of teamwork
Explanation: The characters in the book often work together to solve problems, highlighting the benefits of collaboration and mutual support.
Real-World Application: Kids learn the importance of cooperating with others and how teamwork can lead to achieving great results.
Example Lesson: Courage to explore the unknown
Explanation: The protagonist embarks on a journey into unfamiliar territories, showing bravery and a willingness to explore.
Real-World Application: Children are encouraged to be curious and adventurous, exploring new areas of learning and play without fear.
Example Lesson: Learning from mistakes
Explanation: As the characters make mistakes, they learn and grow, which helps them in their future choices.
Real-World Application: This lesson helps children understand that mistakes are a natural part of learning and an opportunity for improvement.