In “Sometimes You Fly,” Katherine Applegate explores the journey of growth and self-discovery. This powerful story captures the ups and downs of life through the lens of a young girl who learns to embrace change. Readers will find inspiration in the themes of courage and resilience. This post will highlight key messages from the book, delve into its characters, and discuss why it resonates with readers of all ages.
Sometimes You Fly by Katherine Applegate, beautifully illustrated by Jennifer Black Reinhardt, has quickly become one of my top picks in children’s literature. It stands proudly alongside my all-time favorite, Love You Forever by Robert Munsch.
This enchanting story begins with a first birthday and gracefully navigates through the various triumphs and milestones of childhood, culminating in the momentous occasion of graduation. The book opens with a charming scene of a weary mother baking in a chaotic kitchen, accompanied by the text “Before the cake….” Each page turn reveals Reinhardt’s delightful and poignant illustrations, which add depth to the narrative.
The first half of the book captures the essence of growing up, highlighting key moments such as learning to feed oneself, forming friendships at school, joining sports teams, experiencing the thrill of learning to drive, falling in love for the first time, and ultimately, celebrating graduation. In the final pages, readers are treated to uplifting messages that encourage children to embrace the ups and downs of life. It reminds us that every cake we create may rise or fall, burn or bake, and that setbacks are not failures but rather stepping stones for growth.
“What matters most us what you take from all you learn before the cake.”
Young children might not grasp the deeper meaning behind the children’s book “Sometimes You Fly,” but parents are sure to find themselves moved to tears. The book’s straightforward language, rhythmic repetition, and captivating illustrations make it an excellent choice for early readers. “Sometimes You Fly” is essential reading not only for kids but for the inner child within each of us.
In “Sometimes You Fly” by Katherine Applegate, readers discover the importance of dreaming big and embracing change. The journey of growth unfolds through relatable characters and heartfelt moments. This story teaches us that taking risks can lead to wonderful outcomes. As you reflect on the themes of courage and hope, consider how you can apply these lessons in your own life. Remember, sometimes you truly can soar.
About the author (2018)
Katherine Applegate’s many children’s books include the Newbery Award-winning novel The One and Only Ivan, the bestselling novels Wishtree and Crenshaw, the bestselling Animorphs series, and the picture books Ivan and The Buffalo Storm. She lives in California. Visit her online at katherineapplegate.com and on Twitter at @kaauthor.
When her elementary school classmates said they wanted to be fireman, doctors, and vets, Jennifer Black Reinhardt declared she wanted to draw the picture on greeting cards. Today her diverse body of work includes not only greeting cards but chapter books and picture books, including Yaks Yak by Linda Sue Park and Sometimes You Fly by Katherine Applegate. Jennifer lives with her family in Iowa City, Iowa. Visit her online at jbrienhardt.com, on Twitter @jblackreinhardt, and on Instagram @JenniferBlackReinhardt.
About Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Trade Publishing
For nearly two centuries, HMH Trade Publishing has published some of the world’s most renowned novels, nonfiction, children’s books, and reference works. As part of a leading global learning company, it is uniquely positioned to offer educational and entertaining content for all audiences. Its distinguished author list includes ten Nobel Prize winners, forty-eight Pulitzer Prize winners, fifteen National Book Award winners, and more than one hundred Caldecott, Newbery, Printz, and Sibert Medal and Honor recipients. HMH publishes such distinguished authors as Philip Roth, Temple Grandin, Tim O’Brien, and Amos Oz, and a celebrated roster of children’s authors and illustrators including Kwame Alexander, Lois Lowry, and Chris Van Allsburg. HMH is also home to The Best American series®; The Whole30®, Weber Grill, Betty Crocker®, Better Homes and Gardens®, How to Cook Everything®, and other leading lifestyle properties; the Peterson Field Guides®; CliffsNotes™; books by J.R.R. Tolkien; and many iconic children’s books and characters, including Curious George®, The Little Prince, and The Polar Express. For more information, visit www.hmhco.com/popular-reading.