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The Boy Who Wanted to Fly
In The Boy Who Wanted to Fly, Farial English introduces us to Max, a young boy in a wheelchair who dreams of soaring among the clouds. Day after day, he gazes from his bedroom window, captivated by birds darting gracefully between the buildings. One afternoon, while Max is lost in thought, his sister Maya bursts in with thrilling news: the family will spend spring break at the beach. Excitement fills the house. For Max, however, the trip is more than a getaway; it is a chance to bring his dream to life. He quickly begins planning, determined to construct something that might carry him skyward. The question lingers: will Max find a way to fly?
This story shines for many reasons. At its heart lies a celebration of inclusivity. Max’s wheelchair never sets him apart from his sister; the two share the same joy, mischief, and determination. English resists the temptation to dwell on limitations, instead allowing Max’s ingenuity and creativity to take center stage. Children reading the story learn not to fixate on disability but to focus on the imagination and resilience that define Max’s character.
Equally compelling is the portrayal of family. The anticipation of a simple beach trip brims with warmth, highlighting that what truly matters is time together rather than the destination. English weaves this theme seamlessly, reminding readers that life’s simplest pleasures often create the richest memories.
A delightful surprise awaits readers as well: ten colorful kites are cleverly hidden throughout the book. This treasure-hunt element adds an interactive twist, turning storytime into an engaging game for children and parents alike. The illustrations by Max Rambaldi deserve special mention. Each full-page artwork is meticulously detailed, with muted tones that perfectly echo the gentle, heartfelt narrative.
The Boy Who Wanted to Fly is more than a children’s story; it is a celebration of imagination, inclusivity, and family. With its heartfelt message, engaging storytelling, and stunning illustrations, it is a book that resonates with readers of all ages. Highly recommended.
Pages: 32 | ASIN : B0FLF3H3MY
Rich Sensory Imagery
Charlie and Sophie’s Great Escape follows two spirited Border Collie puppies who are eager to explore after a rainstorm and wind up lost in the woods. What was the inspiration for your story?
Charlie and Sophie’s Great Escape was inspired by my border collie puppies and their absolute zest for life. We adopted both of them from a rescue in upstate New York. They made me smile every day and brought much joy and gratitude to my life. I was training them to be off-leash in the woods and fields around our farm. For the most part, they were attentive and easy to train. However, being puppies, they could be impulsive at times. After being cooped up in the house for a couple of days because of bad weather, they took off into the woods on their own. This was the incident that inspired my story.
Sadly, Charlie became sick when he was barely five years old, and the problem remained undiagnosed. We had to let him go just four months after he became ill. Losing him broke my heart. Eventually, I decided to write about some of our dogs’ adventures so Charlie would live on in the pages of my book and bring joy to those who read about the two puppies. Charlie and Sophie inspired me, but Charlie’s death was the impetus to actually write the book.
What educational aspects were important for you to include in this children’s book?
I was fascinated by the intensity of concentration my dogs displayed when exploring their surroundings. I wanted to show how dogs use their senses and how their senses differ from ours. Rich sensory imagery, conveyed through words and illustrations, makes the sights, sounds, and smells of the woods more real for the reader.
I include two pages of backmatter that discuss a dog’s five senses and encourage the young reader to compare those with our own human senses.
What scene in the book did you have the most fun writing?
I really enjoyed writing the part where Charlie discovers the goose nest and is attacked by an angry mama bird. Describing the scene’s energy with all the involved sounds and emotions was fun!
Can you tell us more about what’s in store for Charlie and Sophie and the direction of the next book?
Charlie gets jealous when another dog comes to stay. Rocky is big and used to being a solo dog. In our house, however, Rocky has to share attention with Charlie and Sophie, while Charlie has to accept less attention from Mom! An encounter with a porcupine is a turning point in their prickly relationship!
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Will the big bird attack them?
Will they ever see their boy again?
Join the two puppies on their wild adventure as they try to find their way back home!
Charlie and Sophie’s Great Escape
Charlie and Sophie’s Great Escape takes readers on an enchanting journey through the eyes of two spirited Border Collie puppies. Eager to explore after a rainstorm, Charlie and Sophie set out on a walk with their owner, Nicky. However, when Nicky momentarily runs back to the house to grab his forgotten hat, the curious pups can’t resist the call of adventure. They bolt into the woods, reveling in the muddy ground beneath their paws and the rich array of scents left by passing animals. Their playful pursuit of a brown deer leads them deep into the forest, far from familiar paths. Lost but exhilarated, the puppies embrace their surroundings, encountering wildlife, observing nature, and using their keen senses to navigate their way home.
Charlie and Sophie are brimming with charm, their energetic and curious personalities shining throughout the story. Their adventure feels vivid and authentic, brought to life by Farial English’s rich descriptions. Sensory details—sounds, textures, and smells—immerse readers in the puppies’ world, offering a unique glimpse into how animals experience their environment. These elements lend the story a special warmth, making it not just entertaining but also educational. The inclusion of a concluding section on how dogs use their senses is a thoughtful touch, providing readers with practical insights into pet care and animal behavior. The illustrations elevate the story further. Realistic and finely detailed, they use soft, inviting colors to create a sense of wonder and serenity. From Charlie and Sophie’s playful antics to their encounters with forest animals, the artwork captures their curiosity and the beauty of the natural world. While a few sentences may run long for very young readers, the language remains accessible and engaging, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable reading experience.
Farial English has crafted a delightful tale that combines adventure, empathy, and education. Charlie and Sophie’s Great Escape invites children to connect with animals and nature, fostering a deeper appreciation for the world around them. It’s a heartwarming story that both entertains and inspires, making it a standout addition to any bookshelf.
Pages: 32 | ASIN : B0DJDFLXXG
LITERARY TITAN 