Air Miles John Burningham, written by Bill Salaman and illustrated by Helen Oxenbury. Candlewick Press, Penguin Random House. 2022. $24.99 ages 4 and up

"On a sunny day, with the engine roaring
and the propeller whirring, the plane sped 
across the field and rose into the air. 

Miles was flying. 

Miles was tired when he returned. 
Norman had to help him 
out of the cockpit."

What a loss to children's literature with the death of John Burningham in 2019. His bibliography includes more than thirty picture books that hold great appeal for young readers and their caregivers. In his final picture book, written with the help of his good friend Bill Salaman and illustrated by his wife, Helen Oxenbury, fans of Motor Milles (Candlewick, 2016) get a chance to see Miles embark on another adventurous journey.

This appealing sequel presents Miles in the twilight of his years. He can't run as he once did, or even walk easily anymore. His hearing is not what it had been. Perhaps Mr. Huddy, who made his car in the first adventure, can help find something to cheer Miles up. Turns out that Mr. Huddy is working on an airplane. Could Miles be the pilot for the tiny plane? 

Miles proves to be a quick study, and soon makes a solo flight. Upon his return, Miles is beat and succumbs to a long nap. All following flights are much longer. After each return, he requires more assistance. Soon, other activities stop: walks, eating, even flying. On his final day, Miles goes to the flying field where Norman lifts him into the plane. Miles takes his final flight. 

"He flew farther than ever before." 

 

An opening note written by Helen Oxenbury, and endpapers created with John Burningham's thumbnail sketches are welcome. Touching, and full of heart.