Flying High is a lively picture book, written by Geeta Dharmarajan and published by Katha Books, that tells the story of Suni Pandya, popularly known as Sunita Williams. As an astronaut, she is a live example of a woman who has achieved her dream. This book tells her story in very simple language, which makes it an apt read for 3-5 year olds.
There is a mix of vibrant illustrations as well as actual pictures of Sunita in a spacesuit, in the space shuttle. This combination works well for the little reader. I particularly enjoyed the images of Sunita in space- fixing her spaceship, exercising and eating!
Since the text is minimal, I think the book is great for very young children as well. The book ends with a few thoughts to ponder- focused on what the child wants to be, what are the qualities required for that and so on. There is also a little section where the children are required to list five women who have achieved their dreams. I like the way the gender sensitivity and issue of women’s emancipation is gently woven in, for a young readership.
Flying High is the inspiring story of Sunita Williams, especially written for young kids, aged 3-5 years.
