Flying Circus Above and Beyond

Flying Circus: Above and Beyond is the third installment in the Airplane Adventures series by Leona Cobham. It is a captivating and hugely imaginative aviation adventure with an irresistible appeal to young readers. The story follows a diverse group of aircraft characters as they face challenges, seek resolution, and explore the themes of purpose, perseverance, and the importance of teamwork. The story opens with Nighthawk, a stealth fighter jet, on a tense encounter with a rogue Hercules C-One Thirty, known as Albert, who feels discarded and seeks revenge after being retired from service. As the Flying Circus planes work to resolve the conflict, Woody the Tiger Moth embarks on a charitable mission, and Vulcan Vul worries about aging and the fear of being grounded. Cobham delivers a tale that is packed with action-packed flying scenes, as well as insightful reflections on purpose, legacy, and the value of integrity.

There is so much for fans of Children's Fiction to relish in Flying Circus. The author immerses you in the world of airplanes, and besides the engaging, beautiful story, she crafts fascinating illustrations of the different kinds of aircraft. The prose is gorgeous, and the dialogue is a combination of wit and sparkle. Leona Cobham succeeds in making you like characters that are not human, and the cinematic storytelling just got me turning the pages. The setting is exceptionally accomplished, and from the excellent descriptions of the skies, the author grounds the narrative in Wakefield airfield, a hub of activity and camaraderie for aircraft with different gifts, concerns, and personalities. The characters are a colorful cast of vintage and modern aircraft, including Vulcan Vul, Tom the F-14, Woody the wooden biplane, and Spif the Spitfire, who are portrayed with distinct characteristics that reflect their design and history. The story is a delightful romp that takes you through bustling hangars, scenic skies, and quaint countryside fairs, celebrating the history and diversity of aircraft. It is a wonderfully crafted story with a lot for readers of all ages.