The Class with Wings: A Picture Book

Ages 4 to 8, Grades P to 3

In this expertly crafted story from Newbery Medal–winning author Paul Fleischman, a fourth-grade class takes the journey of a lifetime from the comfort of their own classroom as they follow the flightpath of a small (but mighty) bird—with full-color illustrations by Hannah Salyer

Every afternoon with their heads down and eyes closed, a fourth-grade class embarks on an imaginative migration journey alongside the bird they are studying. Guided by the voice of their teacher in the cool sanctuary of the classroom, the students travel all the way from Brazil to their hometown in Wisconsin. Along the way, they encounter weather, predators, setbacks, and loss. As their imaginations soar, the children begin to relate with their subject; they, too, need rest; have a hard time holding still; and have dodged a bully or two. At the journey’s end, the class has learned much more than science and geography—they have learned to fly.

In this transcendent picture book, Newberry Medal–winning author Paul Fleischman weaves together a story rich with information, connection, and empathy.

About the Author

Paul Fleischman is a Newbery Medal–winning author of over 50 books for both children and young adults. He has also received an additional Newbery Honor, National Book Award nomination, California Young Reader Medal, Boston Globe-Horn Book Award honors, and an international Hans Christian Anderson Award for his body of work. He lives in Monterey with his wife and has had a lifelong obsession with birds. Hannah Salyer’s deep fascination with the natural world was fostered while growing up on the East Coast of the US. Her books have garnered starred reviews and Junior Library Guild selections, and in 2023 she was chosen to be a Sendak Fellow. She cherishes any opportunity to make art about the lives and experiences of other creatures with whom we share our planet. She currently lives in Brooklyn with her partner and their three cats.