Sera Learns to Fly, written by Vinitha and published by Katha, tells the simple and delightful story of a little ant living in a big colony of ants. Sera has a deep desire to fly. Does this manifest into reality?
All around her ants are very busy working hard.The book provides a glimpse into the vibrant colony of ants which has a busy buzz to it! However, despite all the movement around her, and despite all the work she keeps doing as a member of her colony, she never stops wondering. She is always on the lookout for the moment when she would fly.
Would Sera be able to recognise that moment when it comes? It turns out that, one night, Sera and her sister Hira are sitting on the top of their ant hill and Sera catches a glimpse of dry Peepal tree leaves floating gently down the tree. This gives her an idea. Would that idea actually make her fly? Would Hira fly too? Would it change their lives forever?
The simple story is replete with a deep message- how we sometimes ignore our dreams and believe that they are impossible just because we are used to a different way of being and a different thought process that does not belong to us in the first place! It also shows us how it is best for little minds to sometimes believe in their own convictions. This can lead to some very creative ways to fulfil their dreams!
The artwork by Nirzara Verulkar complements the story beautifully. The little ant is in the colony, looking at the world beyond. The illustrations show varied perspectives- within the colony and the world outside it to create a very enthralling setting. Sera is a very lovable character and young readers will easily identify with her.
In a subtle but poignant way, the book shows that perhaps the way to achieving your dreams is first believing in them! And, it takes a little ant to teach us that!
PURCHASE THE BOOK FROM KATHA WEBSITE: https://books.katha.org/product/sera-learns-to-fly/
Title: Sera Learns to Fly
Author: Vinitha
Illustrator: Nirzara Verulkar
Publisher: Katha
Genre: Picture books/ children
Age group: 3-5
