The Class with Wings

The Class with Wings by Paul Fleischman is a beautifully crafted picture book that takes readers on a transformative journey through the eyes of a fourth-grade class studying the migration of a small bird. Each afternoon, as the students close their eyes and listen to their teacher's voice, they embark on an imaginative journey, following the bird's flight from Brazil to Wisconsin. Along the way, they face challenges such as weather, predators, setbacks, and loss. Through this experience, the children connect deeply with the bird's struggles, recognizing their own need for rest, the difficulty of staying still, and their encounters with bullies.

The book transcends science and geography, blending these themes with empathy, connection, and personal growth. As they follow the bird's path, the class learns not just about migration but also about resilience, making the story a lesson in both learning and life. With vibrant, full-color illustrations by Hannah Salyer, the book offers a visual and emotional journey that is both educational and profoundly moving.