To Fly or Not to Fly?

From George Flies South by Simon James

As icy winds scatter the last of fall leaves, our skies fill with flocks of birds arrowing southward at a purposeful pace.

But was it easy for our plumed friends to go? Or for us to see them go? Here are two picture books about the angst of saying farewell, even if only for a season.

Acorns and Stew, Too is about a girl who finds a way to keep ducks safely grounded and George Flies South is about a baby bird mustering up the courage to fly away.

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George Flies South

Written & illustrated by Simon James

Candlewick, 2011

$16.99, ages 3 and up, 40 pages

A fledgling takes flight in a way he never imagined in this darling book by the creator of Leon & Bob.

George, a tawny wisp of a bird, would rather snuggle in his nest than try out his wings and fly south.

Perched midway down the branch of a big tree at the entrance to a city park, the nest seems cozy and safe.

But Momma bird knows it won't be either for long.

Only a few leaves still cling to the tree and soon snow will come and worms will be hard to find.