The Year We Learned to Fly by Jacqueline Woodson, illustrated by Rafael López
Why This Book Matters
The Year We Learned to Fly is a beautifully crafted intergenerational story about how children use imagination, ancestral wisdom, and community in difficult times. On a day filled with boredom or anger, a grandmother encourages her grandchildren to close their eyes, breathe deeply, and remember the power of imagination passed down through generations. As they “fly” through seasons of the year, they reclaim agency and hope.
Jacqueline Woodson’s lyrical text and Rafael López’s luminous mixed-media art create a rich sensory experience. The children cope with ordinary struggles with quiet strength inspired by stories of ancestors who endured far greater hardships. This picture book encourages readers to connect their personal experiences to broader histories, honoring legacy, creativity, and emotional resilience.
For families, educators, and cultural leaders, this book is a perfect tool for exploring coping skills, mindfulness, family connection, and Black cultural history. Use it for creative storytelling circles, classroom activities on emotions and imagination, or community programming focused on restorative practices and cultural pride.
The Year We Learned to Fly by Jacqueline Woodson, illustrated by Rafael López
Why This Book Matters
The Year We Learned to Fly is a beautifully crafted intergenerational story about how children use imagination, ancestral wisdom, and community in difficult times. On a day filled with boredom or anger, a grandmother encourages her grandchildren to close their eyes, breathe deeply, and remember the power of imagination passed down through generations. As they “fly” through seasons of the year, they reclaim agency and hope.
Jacqueline Woodson’s lyrical text and Rafael López’s luminous mixed-media art create a rich sensory experience. The children cope with ordinary struggles with quiet strength inspired by stories of ancestors who endured far greater hardships. This picture book encourages readers to connect their personal experiences to broader histories, honoring legacy, creativity, and emotional resilience.
For families, educators, and cultural leaders, this book is a perfect tool for exploring coping skills, mindfulness, family connection, and Black cultural history. Use it for creative storytelling circles, classroom activities on emotions and imagination, or community programming focused on restorative practices and cultural pride.