Pip’s First Flight And the Power of Visualization

By Elyse and Garrett Fox
Jolly Fox Books, 2023
Picture Book Paperback, 55 Pages, Ages 4-7

“What if, what if?”

Pip is a young pterodactyl who needs to learn how to fly. It’s a big challenge and Pip is fearful of all the possible unpleasant things that could happen, and in the land of dinosaurs, falling isn’t the only problem, there’s sea creatures, lightning bolts, high winds, and more. 

Children face many anxieties as they grow up, and analyzing risk is a skill that we all must learn, however, when it prevents us from doing things that we know are possible, it’s time to re-think. Positive visualization is a helpful tool whether we’re frightened of performing a piano recital, meeting someone new, learning to swim, or in Pip’s case, as a pterodactyl, finding the power of flight. 

I like this book for many reasons. First, the parent is supporting the child with positive thinking rather than eliciting pressure or ridicule. Acknowledging and validating fear is important and the first step toward confidence to overcome a problem. Learning to visualize positive outcomes can be the difference between failing and success and is a learning tool that is valuable throughout a lifetime.

“When you do something new, it’s okay to feel fear,
But why scare yourself with thoughts so severe?”

The rhyming verse is well done with the exception of a few spots where the rhythm is forced, and this reviewer feels as though the story, overall, would be better served without the few narrative sections and let the illustrations put the story forward.  The activities in the back of the book are well thought out and reiterate the purpose of the book. The positive message about having the power to control your own thoughts and actions carries this book all the way.

“What if, What if, … such possibilities!

Pip’s First Flight And the Power of Visualization by Elyse and Garrett Fox receives 4 stars from this reviewer.