Little Louie Takes Off

In a picture book well suited to families on the go, a young swallow who “couldn't get the hang of” flying migrates via jet. Louie, a wide-eyed black bird with crescent-moon wings and a white breast, enjoys watching planes through binoculars. But rather than take wing, he “always felt much chirpier playing hopscotch or flying his kite.” The situation doesn't improve when falling leaves herald the coming winter. “Too bad you can't fly like normal birds,” Louie's father grumbles when the family leaves Louie and his red suitcase at the airport for his southbound journey, as the rest of them begin their more traditional migration. One of the book's funniest images is the flight-challenged bird sleeping on his back in a red airplane seat, wearing oversize headphones. A mishap involving his round-trip ticket and a hotel balcony finally makes Louie soar (and introduces him to a genuinely terrestrial penguin at the zoo). First-time children's author Morison tells Louie's story with gentle humor and a clear flair for all things retro: nearly devoid of contemporary reference points, this is a book that feels as though it's been around for decades. Morison's illustrations exude a 1960s vibe with images that seem faded by time; watercolor washes of faint blue and pale peaches and pinks contrast with supple, jazzy pencil lines. Though this story breaks no new ground, it brims with charm that should attract devotees. Ages 4-7. (June)