I Dreamed of Flying Like a Bird

Haas, Robert B. 2010. I DREAMED OF FLYING LIKE A BIRD. Washington, D.C.: National Geographic. ISBN 9781426306938 [Suggested Grade Levels 3-7]

REVIEW
A bird’s eye view of the world is one that is enjoyed by many but few have the opportunity to experience it firsthand. In this particular volume, the young reader sees the natural world from a perspective that is awe-inspiring while also informative. Herds of buffaloes flee from hunting lions who seek out the weakest in the herd. The lone wildebeest amongst a large heard of zebras seeks out water and a large group of nurse sharks off the coast of Belize search for their next meal. Whales off the coast of Greenland are a stark contrast to the colorful flocks of flamingos feeding in tropical waters. From the savannahs of Africa to the jungles of Brazil, and points in between, Haas has captured moments of nature in action while flying like a bird, suspended from a helicopter.

Haas states that “taking photos from low-flying aircraft is a thrilling and challenging way to capture unusual images” of our world’s wildlife. Seeking to share the wonders of nature, he has created a small volume of work that opens up the world to young readers with captivating images of life. These images may well spark an interest in the reader to seek out more information about the natural world.

CONNECTIONS
Have young readers locate on a world map the various places that Haas visited during the undertaking of this book. Young readers may also find this is an opportunity for further research animal behavior and habitats.

RELATED BOOKS
Other books about animal behavior:
Thimmesh, Catherine. FRIENDS: TRUE STORIES OF EXTRAORDINARY ANIMAL FRIENDSHIPS. ISBN 978-\0547390109
Bailey, Jacqui. AMAZING ANIMAL FACTS. ISBN 9781405301886

By Christine J. Rayl