Tom the F-14 Tomcat has a need for speed. Convinced he's only valued for his ability to break the sound barrier, the mighty fighter jet is determined to win a race to Australia to keep the airshow alive. But when a rival F-15 Eagle tricks him into skipping refueling, the supersonic plane fears he's let everyone down as his tanks run empty. Can Tom get help from his talented friends and finish the contest before it's too late? We land with the Tomcat on the pitching deck of an aircraft carrier while Woody, the little biplane, finds he has some remarkable abilities that earn Tom's respect. Will Woody succeed in transporting a tiny passenger without losing face? But wait, what's that terrible smell? Can Vul rescue a six-engined giant who desperately needs help to get home? With his lonely backstory, having been shut in a hangar deemed unfit to fly, the Vulcan is determined to prevent an Antonov with a faulty landing gear from experiencing the same fate. And the Spitfire's leadership skills are exceptional as expected of a flying ace. With a keen sense of protocol, he is experienced and knowledgeable, but to his consternation, he has to transport a passenger who is oblivious to his importance. (His elliptical wings are described in a useful section at the back of the books entitled In and Out of the Cockpit, an A-Z of aviation information.) Flying Circus Takes to the Skies is a collection stories from the Aeroplane Adventure series centering around four true-to-life aeroplanes, exciting action, and important themes of self-esteem, patience and friendship. Illustrated with line drawings by the highly esteemed aviation illustrator Tim O'Brien.

"Flying Circus is well-written and structurally sound. Each story flows smoothly and seamlessly into the next. The book's pacing is nimble and the style is friendly and upbeat. It's fresh, funny, and original.A second Aeroplane Adventures book is in the works. I'd book my "flight" now 'cos this one's goin' places. Fast!" (Reedsy Discovery Editorial Review)

About the Author
While working in a forest recuperation project in Brazil, Leona Cobham voluteered to teach in a shanty town. Here, a lifelong interest in understanding differing learning styles began. On return to the UK, she begain to write children's fiction and worked part-time as a classroom reading assistant. Having been immersed in the world of aviation from a young age it was natural to create a world of aeroplanes. Her grandfather, Sir Alan Cobham, pioneered long-distance flying, making first time flights. He was passionate about getting Britain air-minded as he put it, in the 1930s. He was later responsible for the invention of in-flight refuelling. Thus, the book series Aeroplane Adventures was born. Flying Circus Takes to the Skies is the first in this series of books. The second will be published in Spring 2024.

Reviews
"Leona Cobham tells a good yarn. With three short stories, you can get through one as an evening bedtime story and there's plenty of humour along the way." Al Suttie, editor, Brooklands Bulletin --- "Leona Cobham has written a mesmerizing tale, bringing to life intelligently imagined and perfectly accomplished characters for young readers. The characters are genuinely flawed and believable. Vul, the Avro Vulcan is an easy-going, confident airplane with a troubled past. Woody will need more encouragement to uncover his hidden strengths. A conversation between Vul and Woody shows Woody's simplicity and Vul's strong sense of loneliness: "There aren't any Vulcans left apart from me." The only thing that drives Tom is his need for speed, but as he undertakes a mission with others, he begins to re-evaluate his values, putting teamwork above other things. Flying Circus Takes to the Skies features excellent prose and language that is suitable for young readers. The glossary at the end of the book provides more understanding of terms related to aeronautics. I enjoyed the adventure, the fascinating characters, and the gorgeous writing. The exceptional use of anthropomorphism renders the story relatable and the characters lovable." Cristina Prescott, The Book Commentary.---"The book has lessons for children about friendship, helping others and not being too proud. It demonstrates that we all have something to offer, no matter how different we are. The book is educational, while still being fun and humorous. Children will learn more about aeroplanes because certain words in bold text are explained at the end of the book. This book is well-worth reading and I highly recommend it." LoveReading4Kids



Book Information
ISBN 9781739407001
Author Leona Cobham
Format Paperback
Page Count 96
Imprint Cobham Wings
Publisher Cobham Wings
Weight(grams) 113g
Dimensions(mm) 203mm * 127mm * 6mm