Description
Book SynopsisTom the F-14 Tomcat has a need for speed. Convinced he's only valued for his ability to break the sound barrier, the mighty fighter jet is determined to win a race to Australia to keep the airshow alive. But when a rival F-15 Eagle tricks him into skipping refueling, the supersonic plane fears he's let everyone down as his tanks run empty. Can Tom get help from his talented friends and finish the contest before it's too late? We land with the Tomcat on the pitching deck of an aircraft carrier while Woody, the little biplane, finds he has some remarkable abilities that earn Tom's respect. Will Woody succeed in transporting a tiny passenger without losing face? But wait, what's that terrible smell? Can Vul rescue a six-engined giant who desperately needs help to get home? With his lonely backstory, having been shut in a hangar deemed unfit to fly, the Vulcan is determined to prevent an Antonov with a faulty landing gear from experiencing the same fate. And the Spitfire's leadership skills are exceptional as expected of a flying ace. With a keen sense of protocol, he is experienced and knowledgeable, but to his consternation, he has to transport a passenger who is oblivious to his importance. (His elliptical wings are described in a useful section at the back of the books entitled In and Out of the Cockpit, an A-Z of aviation information.) Flying Circus Takes to the Skies is a collection stories from the Aeroplane Adventure series centering around four true-to-life aeroplanes, exciting action, and important themes of self-esteem, patience and friendship. Illustrated with line drawings by the highly esteemed aviation illustrator Tim O'Brien.
Trade Review"Leona Cobham tells a good yarn. With three short stories, you can get through one as an evening bedtime story and there's plenty of humour along the way." Al Suttie, editor, Brooklands Bulletin --- "Leona Cobham has written a mesmerizing tale, bringing to life intelligently imagined and perfectly accomplished characters for young readers. The characters are genuinely flawed and believable. Vul, the Avro Vulcan is an easy-going, confident airplane with a troubled past. Woody will need more encouragement to uncover his hidden strengths. A conversation between Vul and Woody shows Woody's simplicity and Vul's strong sense of loneliness: “There aren’t any Vulcans left apart from me.” The only thing that drives Tom is his need for speed, but as he undertakes a mission with others, he begins to re-evaluate his values, putting teamwork above other things. Flying Circus Takes to the Skies features excellent prose and language that is suitable for young readers. The glossary at the end of the book provides more understanding of terms related to aeronautics. I enjoyed the adventure, the fascinating characters, and the gorgeous writing. The exceptional use of anthropomorphism renders the story relatable and the characters lovable." Cristina Prescott, The Book Commentary.---"The book has lessons for children about friendship, helping others and not being too proud. It demonstrates that we all have something to offer, no matter how different we are. The book is educational, while still being fun and humorous. Children will learn more about aeroplanes because certain words in bold text are explained at the end of the book. This book is well-worth reading and I highly recommend it." LoveReading4Kids
Table of ContentsPedal to the Metal The Flying Circus must pull together to win an important race Fit to Fly Can the Flying Circus rescue a stranded Antonov? What's in the Box? The Flying Circus are each given an endangered species to take to safety. But who is to carry what? In and Out of the Cockpit A glossary of terms
