Today I Will Fly!

Today I Will Fly!
Mo Willems

My Rating: 4 out of 5

Genre: Early reader, picture book, Monarch Award Nominee

Today I will Fly is just one of Mo Willems' s early reader books that introduce the lovable and funny characters of Elephant and Piggie. Although the two are best friends, they couldn't be more opposite: Elephant is a pessimistic nay-sayer while Piggie is a fun-loving and sometimes a bit reckless.

In this story, Piggie is determined to fly and excitedly relates his lofty goal to Elephant who, in turn, immediately bursts Piggie's bubble. Ever-optimistic Piggie disregards his friend's negative sentiments and eventually, through the help of a couple of friends, finds a way to fly. Mo Willems began his career as a writer and animator for the children's show, Sesame Street, and it is easy to see this connection in the writing and illustrations of this book.

This book begs to be read aloud in the pre-k and kindergarten classrooms, and also works well as a transitional piece for emerging readers (K-1st). I adore Mo Willems's work, and feel he echos the works of classic authors such as Dr. Seuss. I especially enjoyed Today I Will Fly becuase of the message it sends - to find a way to do what you want, no matter what. Mo Willems, while a relatively new children's author/illustrator, is quickly making his place in the annals of beloved children's authors.