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Sunday, May 19, 2024

Ready to Soar, written and illustrated by Cori Doerrfeld. Dial, Penguin Random House. 2024. $24.99 ages 4 and up

 


"The eagle spread its wings wide. 
"I rule the sky because I'm large and in charge. 
Trust me, it needs to be bigger!" 

Riley got more paper out. 
"I can fix that."
"

Riley, dressed in goggles, a leather flying cap, and a blue onesie is a reader. Having just finished reading Flying 101, inspiration hits and plans are made to fashion a paper airplane for its first flight. Takeoff  is imminent when a large eagle swoops in to have a say about the size; it must be bigger! Riley is receptive to the advice and creates a bigger one. 

Before sending it skyward, a parrot puts a stop to the launch by suggesting it must be fancier. Always open to support and suggestions, Riley uses markers in hopes that will make the difference needed. There is no end to relentless advice from a falcon (faster), a goose (longer), a flamingo (taller), a pelican (stronger), a crane (slimmer), and an owl (smarter). Each agrees it must be BETTER!

When a CRASH occurs, Riley is finally ready to return to the original plan just one more time. Then, a penguin wants to have a say. 

"WOO! You got this!"  The penguin clapped its flippers. 
"I  just didn't want to miss it!"

Just ahead of takeoff, Riley makes one small change ... it is all that is needed for a perfect flight!   

As fans will know, Cori Doerrfeld creates charming digital characters and scenes, filled with wonder and warmth. Listeners will be totally engaged by this gentle story about believing in oneself and having a friend to share your success. 
                                                                             


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