I recently chatted with Ann Marie Meyers, author of the children’s book, ‘Up in the Air”.
What I remember the most about our meeting is the passion she radiated while speaking of her children’s book, Up in the Air. She spoke of dreaming big, and how important it is for children to be able to dream that anything is possible in life. Hearing this, my radar went up. I wanted to know more about this book and its author. It seemed like a story that any child would benefit from reading.
The main character of Up in the Air is Melody, a ten year old girl who has always wanted to fly. She is a rough and tumble young girl who tries to fly off the swings at the park. Her parents are concerned that she is hurting herself and want her to be more cautious, but Melody is very determined. Her belief that she can fly is very strong.
One day, Melody leaps off the swing and lands in Chimeroan, a mystical place where children’s dreams come true. She is given a pair of wings, complete with their own inner guidance system. As Melody learns how to fly, she finds that the wings are in tune with her thoughts. She is unable to enjoy her wings because she is carrying a heavy burden. In order to be free, Melody is forced to deal with the guilt she has about a car accident that left her father in a wheelchair. The story of Melody’s journey is chronicled in a fun and accessible way. The reader cheers for Melody when she eventually faces her guilt.
Many of us carry guilt and know its heaviness. It is heartbreaking to witness a child (even a fictional one) struggling with her demons. The simple beauty of the story is that once Melody allows her feelings and faces her fears, she reaches a greater understanding and is able to be happy again. With her new awareness, she not only keeps her wings, but she returns to Chimeroan to teach other children to face their fears and live their dreams.
When I asked her what she finds most rewarding about having written this book, she told me how much she enjoys going to schools in Toronto to share the story of Melody and her dream to be “Up in the Air”:
What I found rewarding was going to the schools and talking not only about my book but about dreams and how important it is to hold on to them. We talk about how important it is to never, ever give up no matter what anyone ever tells you. I was surprised by the response from the kids because they all have dreams. . I read them a chapter and then we just talk, the kids and I, and I find it to be the most rewarding thing that I could ever have imagined. It is amazing and I love it.
I recently bought a copy of the book for my nephew Riley for his 9th birthday. He is thoroughly enjoying it. If you have any young readers on your shopping list, I highly recommend Up in the Air. It’s never to early to learn how to face your fears and believe in your dream.
Up in the Air is available at:
Ann Marie Meyers is a children’s author living in Toronto. She would love to visit your child’s school and teach them how to dream. You can contact her for details at www.annmarie-meyers.com
