Picture books are not just for 4–8-year-olds. They are used in any elementary classroom to introduce different ideas, empathy, and textual connections.
The child's point of view in Fly Away Home is particularly effective. This very sensitive book conveys a strong message about a real issue that is often left unaddressed because it's not a comfortable issue to discuss.
Students, with discretion, want to understand issues that adults do not talk about or think they shouldn't hear about. Homelessness is a real problem in every community whether you see it every day or not. This book is an excellent springboard to discuss family and community and responsible citizenship.