Wings
Wings Series
on Goodreads (501)
What’s inside...
Ikarus Jackson, the new boy in school, is outcast because he has wings, but his resilient spirit inspires one girl to speak up for him. Are you brave enough to be your true self? Ikarus Jackson is, but it isn't always easy. The people in his neighborhood point at his wings. The kids at school laugh. The teachers call him a distraction. One girl identifies with Ikarus, but she is too shy to speak up for herself, let alone for him. Maybe I should have said something to those mean kids, she thinks, when their taunts send him drifting into the sky. Inspired by Ikarus's own courage, she sets out in search of him and so begins her own journey of self-discovery -- leaving both of them transformed. 'I wanted to create a book that tells kids never to abandon the things that make them different, to be proud of what makes them unique. Every child has his own beauty, her own talents. Ikarus Jackson can fly through the air; I want kids to find their own set of wings and soar with him.' -- Christopher Myers
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
4-8
Length
40 pages
Text complexity
Character compass
Ikarus Jackson
The Unnamed Narrator
Discussion points
How did the character Ikarus feel when he was teased, and how do you feel when someone teases you?
What does it mean to 'have wings' like Ikarus? Can you think of a time when you felt like you could fly?
How did Ikarus' classmates change their views by the end of the story? What do you think made them change?
Why do you think it's important for everyone to be accepted for who they are?
Can wings represent something other than flying? What do you think they symbolize in this story?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to express their feelings about the events in the story, and relate them to their own experiences.
Discuss the importance of diversity and acceptance, using characters from the book as examples.
Explore the concept of resilience with your child by focusing on how Ikarus dealt with challenges.
Use creative prompts like drawing or acting out favorite scenes to deepen your child's connection to the story.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Embrace Individuality
Explanation: In 'Wings', the protagonist Ikarus Jackson boldly showcases his unique wings despite being ridiculed. His difference is portrayed positively, highlighting his bravery and self-acceptance.
Real-World Application: Children learn to appreciate and accept their unique qualities and those of others, fostering a sense of self-worth and respect for diversity in their everyday interactions.
Example Lesson: Courage to Stand Up Against Bullying
Explanation: Ikarus faces bullying because of his wings but ultimately finds the courage to stand up for himself and not hide his true identity. This shows the importance of resilience and courage in difficult situations.
Real-World Application: Children are encouraged to stand up for themselves and others when facing bullying, teaching them to be assertive and not tolerate mistreatment.
Example Lesson: Importance of Empathy
Explanation: A classmate eventually reaches out to understand and appreciate Ikarus, transitioning from a bystander to a supportive friend. This shift illustrates how understanding and empathy can change perspectives.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to adopt a more empathetic approach towards their peers who may seem different, enhancing social harmony and emotional intelligence.
Example Lesson: Celebrating Uniqueness in Others
Explanation: As the story progresses, others begin to see Ikarus’s wings as beautiful and extraordinary, transforming envy and fear into admiration and acceptance.
Real-World Application: Children learn the value of celebrating the unique traits and talents of others, which promotes inclusivity and a positive community environment at school and in other social settings.