Mel Fell

Mel is ready to leave the nest, spread her wings, and fly…but she plunges into the water below instead. But although this isn’t the flight experience she initially hoped for, Mel is a kingfisher and learns that she can dive into the water and fly back up to her tree. This story features simple and effective illustrations and a uniquely engaging format to hook readers by turning the book around. The picture book is suitable for an elementary classroom. It lends itself well to supporting an introduction to animal adaptation. It may help students understand story structure and how to use the medium of the picture book to tell a compelling story. The concern for Mel the readers may feel as she is falling may invite opportunities to explore social–emotional concepts for students all of ages.