Yes, that’s the correct orientation of this book. It opens on the edge under the bir’d’s beak. A stroke of genius, as you’ll see when you start to read the story. Mel is the brave one in the nest, and makes the big decision to skedaddle the minute Mama takes off.
Mel looks down. Her siblings look worried. Although she’s a teeny bit scared, Mel decides that today is the day she’s going to fly. So taking off with a high-diving somersault, she falls beak first. Straight down.
Past a family of very worried owls.
Past a pack of squirrels who try catching her.
Mel falls and falls. Past a hive a bees who try their best to slow her down.
Past a—I won’t tell you what happens to that poor spider and her web. (The fly is ecstatic, however.)
And still Mel falls.
I’ll leave it at that, because I want you all to check out this book. For the ants. For the slugs.
For the laughs and a brilliant bit of STEM education.
Activities:
Watch a Youtube video of a kingfisher catching fish
Check out more fun facts about kingfishers.
Make an origami kingfisher
Title: Mel Fell
Author/Illustrator: Corey R. Tabor
Publisher: Harper Collins, Balzer & Bray, 2021
Ages: Pre-K – 3rd grade
Themes: self-confidence, flying, humor
For more perfect picture book recommendations, please visit Susanna Hill’s website.
Jilanne Hoffmann 
This sounds very creative! I’ll be on the lookout for this book!
It’s really well done!
What a great cover and fun illustrations. Mel doesn’t look the least concerned, but the squirrels and other animals do! Will have to read the book to see the outcome. Great story about bravery. Am curious about the STEM education.
It’s just a smattering of STEM that explains why Mel isn’t concerned, LOL. A little hook to get kids heading elsewhere to find out more.
Oh, I saw this one at the B&N in town a few weeks back and it’s hilarious and SO creative!! Thanks for giving me another look at it through your lens.
Yes, I love it when an author/illustrator thinks of a creative way to use layout. And the characterization of her animals is so spot on.
I’m so glad you shared this book. I really want to read it – it looks like so much fun.
It is fun! The animals are so expressive. I think you’ll really enjoy it!
This sounds like a really fun, inventive book. I can’t wait to get a hold of it.
I think you’ll like it, Maria!
This looks so fun! Can’t wait to check it out. Last summer we had a Robin’s nest above our deck. I was lucky to watch as each bird fledged. The first one was so ready and would spread its wings and flap over the other three. Then it flew/fell and landed on our deck. The other three waited a couple days before finding the courage to take off. It was so much fun to watch.
Birds are just like us! We all grow and explore at different rates, don’t we? And so much fun to watch the process!
Girl, oh, girl, do I want to read on now?!! terrific.
Ha! Ya gotta get the book!
I’m worried sick now! Tuppence on the other hand is licking her chops and looking upwards hopefully…
Ah, Tuppence doesn’t stand a chance against this birdie. She’ll have to wait for a less nimble opportunity.
I saw the title of this one somewhere & was wondering what it was about. Sounds hilarious! Thanks for sharing.
My pleasure!!