From record-breaking flights and wilderness survival to stories of transformation and new beginnings, these books explore what it means to take flight in all its forms.

When I was approached about curating book recommendations for this column and provided the inaugural issue’s theme, I was immediately intrigued. Flight provides a multitude of meanings, from aviation to “finding your wings,” from fleeing danger to soaring to new heights. The possibilities are endless.

I recently had the opportunity to explore Poor Richard’s Books in downtown Frankfort, Kentucky. The small-town bookshop charm had me quickly realizing that this was a place where finding a book was more like discovering a destination. The attic space offers readers vintage finds and feels more like a treasure hunt than book shopping.

Throughout my travels, I always make time to wander through independent bookshops, but our local readers certainly don’t need to go far. Two Michigan destinations worth seeking out are Literati Bookstore in downtown Ann Arbor and John K. King Used & Rare Books in Detroit. Both offer readers endless shelves of stories and adventures waiting to take flight.

Starting with something for our youngest readers, the following list offers a variety of reads fitting this issue’s theme: Flight.

I Flew Around the World: The True Story of a Young Female Pilot’s Record-Breaking Flight

By Zara Rutherford

At just 19 years old, Zara Rutherford set out on the adventure of a lifetime, flying solo around the world and becoming the youngest woman ever to do so. This inspiring story brings her incredible journey to life with colorful illustrations and engaging storytelling as she travels across 52 countries and five continents.

Readers of all ages will be inspired by her determination and will to follow her dreams. Zara Rutherford soars to new, record-breaking heights as she takes off in I Flew Around the World: The True Story of a Young Female Pilot’s Record-Breaking Flight.

Hatchet

By Gary Paulsen

Brian Robeson is dealing with a variety of challenges surrounding his parents’ divorce, including his knowledge of his mother’s infidelity. On his way to visit his dad in the Canadian wilderness, Brian ends up stranded and alone when the pilot he is traveling with dies of a heart attack.

This catastrophic event sets the rest of the novel in motion, forcing Brian to survive on his own with only his hatchet and the skills he develops along the way.

I still remember reading this novel with my sixth graders many years ago. They were completely absorbed by Brian’s struggle to survive, and our class discussions often centered on what we would have done in his frightening situation. Years later, the copies I have in my eighth-grade classroom library are still frequently checked out.

The Moth Girl

By Heather Kamins

Anna is an ordinary teenager whose life is turned upside down when she develops a rare fictional illness called lepidopsy. As her symptoms become more severe, she begins to float, is drawn to light and experiences intense sugar cravings.

As a result of these moth-like symptoms, Anna has to adjust to a new reality. Through Anna’s journey, the novel explores what it means to live with a chronic illness while highlighting themes of resilience, identity and hope.

Year of Yes: How to Dance It Out, Stand in the Sun and Be Your Own Person

By Shonda Rhimes

Shonda Rhimes is the creator behind some of TV’s biggest hits, including Grey’s Anatomy, Scandal and several other popular shows.

Year of Yes is Rhimes’s inspiring memoir about saying “yes” to new challenges instead of letting fear hold her back. Through funny and honest stories from her life, she illustrates how taking chances can lead to new and exciting opportunities, not just for her, but for all of us.

Where Butterflies Wander

By Suzanne Redfearn

A butterfly serves as a symbol of transformation and hope. After losing one of her children, Marie Egide takes her family to New Hampshire hoping for a fresh start. But when a war veteran refuses to leave their family estate, Marie must confront grief, conflict and the unexpected ways life can change.

This story of forgiveness and new beginnings will have you hooked from the start.

What Books Help You Take Flight?

This list explores the many meanings of flight through a variety of genres, age levels and interests, from soaring adventures and daring journeys to stories of determination and discovery.

With so many possibilities, it was challenging to choose only a few books to highlight. There are many more wonderful stories that could be included.

Which flight-themed books have inspired you?