Eve Bunting’s Fly Away Home is a poignant and heartfelt picture book that deals with a heavy and important topic—homelessness—through the eyes of a young boy. The story, accompanied by Ronald Himler’s delicate watercolor illustrations, is deeply moving, offering both hope and a window into the struggles faced by those without permanent homes.
The narrative follows Andrew, a boy who lives in an airport with his father. Through Andrew’s simple yet profound observations, readers get a glimpse of how they navigate their lives, unnoticed by travelers, sleeping in chairs, and blending into the bustling crowd to avoid detection. The airport becomes a temporary haven, but Andrew longs for stability, a place where they can belong. One of the most powerful moments in the book occurs when Andrew watches a bird trapped in the airport finally find a way out. This serves as a metaphor for his own hopes of someday escaping homelessness and finding a real home.
Bunting’s text is gentle yet impactful, never shying away from the reality of the situation but also leaving room for hope and resilience. It’s a story that can spark meaningful discussions with children about empathy, kindness, and the challenges some people face, including the idea that homelessness can happen to anyone, even those who seem just like us.
Himler’s illustrations beautifully complement the story, capturing the stark contrast between the bustling world of the airport and the quiet, hidden life Andrew and his father lead. The muted colors and soft lines convey both the sadness of their situation and the warmth of the bond between father and son.
Fly Away Home is not just a story about homelessness; it’s about the human spirit, love, and the desire for a better life. It’s a powerful book that encourages compassion and understanding, and it reminds readers that even in the darkest situations, there is always hope.
Questions to ask while reading:
- How do you think Andrew feels about living in the airport?
- Why do you think Andrew and his father have to hide their situation?
- What can we do to help people who are experiencing homelessness?
Fly Away Home on Amazon