THE SIMPLE ART OF FLYING by Cory Leonardo
(This week’s pick is from Cottager Jamie Michalak, who has never owned a bird nor abandoned a hedgehog, but does have a good dog named Lucy.)
What it’s all about …
Alastair the parrot dreams of escaping the pet shop and flying off with his beloved sister, Aggie, to a palm tree. But when Aggie is purchased by 12-year-old Fritz and Alastair is adopted by elderly dance-enthusiast Bertie Plopky, Alastair must hatch a plan. He soon finds he's forced to choose between following his dream life and letting go.
Alastair the parrot dreams of escaping the pet shop and flying off with his beloved sister, Aggie, to a palm tree. But when Aggie is purchased by 12-year-old Fritz and Alastair is adopted by elderly dance-enthusiast Bertie Plopky, Alastair must hatch a plan. He soon finds he's forced to choose between following his dream life and letting go.
Why I love it …
This novel dug its claws into me from page one and would not let go. When Alastair eats paper, he can taste the words. He becomes a fan of poetry and soon writes his own witty versions of famous works. Alastair is grumpy, eloquent, and sensitive -- and I found myself rooting for his happiness. Cory Leonardo's debut novel is a stunner.
Favorite lines ...
And if a little time and warmth and light can turn an ugly, old pit into a tree, who's to say a little time can't do the same for you? For me? I know what I'm betting on.
I'm betting on trees.
AND
Sometimes the palm tree's the wrong ingredient for your pie.
Why will kids love it?
A funny and moving story starring a cast of quirky animals, a 12-year-old aspiring doctor, and an elderly, hip-hop dancing pie baker -- what's not to love? Perfect for fans of The One and Only Ivan and Kate DiCamillo's books.
Where to find/buy …
Or at a school or library near you!
About the Author
Cory Leonardo grew up believing she'd replace Vanna White on Wheel of Fortune, but when that didn't pan out, she decided she'd turn letters and phrases in a different way (but minus the glittery dresses, sadly). A born-and-bred upstate New Yorker, she currently lives in the Syracuse area with her husband and three plucky children. This is her first novel.
Cory Leonardo grew up believing she'd replace Vanna White on Wheel of Fortune, but when that didn't pan out, she decided she'd turn letters and phrases in a different way (but minus the glittery dresses, sadly). A born-and-bred upstate New Yorker, she currently lives in the Syracuse area with her husband and three plucky children. This is her first novel.
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