Fear can feel as heavy as a ton of bricks, or possibly a tonne of feathers, grounding even the most spirited among us. For children, facing a new challenge, whether that is the first day at school, a big performance or learning to ride a bike, it often stirs that same shiver of uncertainty. Well spare a thought for poor Trevor, a goose in Canada that needs to fly south to warmer climates – poor Trevor is afraid to fly, which makes migration extremely difficult for our featured friend in the picture book Trevor Takes Flight.
In this children’s picture book, Trevor Takes Flight by Sam Lawrence & Ben Jackson, Trevor is a goose living in the chilly Canadian wetlands. October is fast approaching and the weather is going to change, getting much colder and really unsuitable for the geese. He needs to migrate to the warmer southern climates, not too much of an issue for a bird, but Trevor is gripped by aerophobia – an all-too-real fear of flying.
As the weather starts to change, the leaves turn and the temperature drops, Trevor watches his flock begin their journey toward warmer skies. Determined not to be left behind, he experiments with every conceivable mode of transport: airplanes, trains and even cargo ships, only to discover birds are refused passage. Faced with the mocking honks from his fellow geese and the looming threat of snow, Trevor resolves to conquer his fear by taking flight himself, one baby step at a time, he is determined to fly!
Overall, Trevor Takes is an excellent heartwarming story of determination, resilience, courage and overcoming fear – a joy to read with its blend of humour, hope and vibrant artwork. Perfect for children aged 3-8 years. A tale that soars beyond fear.
Trevor Takes Flight is a terrific story about fear and overcoming it. Fear, in some cases can be a good thing, but mostly it has a negative effect on living your life. As in Trevor’s case, his fear of flying could have disastrous consequences if he can’t overcome it. In this book, it examines his fear and his courage and determination to overcome it. It is also a story about how overcoming this challenge might not being easy and the best way is to take baby steps, slowly but surely increasing them or trying a different tact until you reach your goal. It is a story of never giving up, baby steps and practice makes perfect alongside courage, determination and having a strong mental attitude.
Trevor Takes Flight is an empowering read for children about overcoming fear, having self-belief, trying new things and approaching problems from different angles. An engaging read with a great educational aspect and deep meaning.
The story is excellent. Trevor is a wonderful character that children will adore and be able to relate to. The underlying message of trying new things and having the courage and perseverance to overcome your fears (it doesn’t need to be a fear of flying) is engaging, relatable and one that children will be able to take meaning from.
I loved the message that this story delivers. The story is excellent and the crisp, clean, vivid illustrations (by Kezzia Crossley) are fantastic, helping children visualise the sad, scared goose transform into a happy, soaring goose when his perseverance pays off and he achieves flight. A wonderful story of using small steps as building blocks to achieve great heights and conquer your fears.
A fantastic story that is beautifully told and illustrated, with a brilliant positive message.
Rating: 5/5
RRP: £8.99 (Paperback) / £3.19 (Kindle)
For more information, visit www.benandsamauthors.com. Available to buy from Amazon here.

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