Flying Away (Claire's Everyday Adventures)
With the help of her family, friends and airport staff, Claire tries to conquer her fear of flying.
Claire and her family are going to visit Grandma. "I don't want to fly," Claire tells her mother. Claire is afraid to fly and nothing that her family or friends tell her will convince her that it is safe. Claire wants the word of someone who knows about planes, a professional.
Her father takes her to the airport. While she is there, Claire meets a flight attendant, ticket agent, gate agent and even a pilot. She gets to see the baggage area, security, gate and airplanes. Along with a quick lesson in aerodynamics from her friend, Claire is finally ready to fly. She even helps a young girl she meets who is also afraid to fly.
Flying Away was written and illustrated by Heather French, Miss America 2000. There are some historical references to flying; the Wright Brothers and Charles Lindbergh are mentioned. This book could be useful for a child who is anticipating their first flight.
By including the people and sites that are common in an airport, she has begun to prepare kids for the experience. This book included some complex ideas and so may be more suitable for an older crowd than typically associated with picture books. My kids were initially excited by the images of the airplanes but the story line didn't keep their attention. It is a positive message at the end that Claire is able to not only conquer her fear but help someone else overcome theirs.
