Flit, the utterly adorable baby fantail, is not allowed to fly. Warned by his parents to stay in the nest, the cheeky baby is bored. And hungry. A tasty looking mozzie lures him out of his nest. But a quick thud down to land and poor Flit realises he can't get back home. Flit must enlist the help of his friends, a gorgeous gang of native Aotearoa birds. Working together they must figure out a way to help get Flit safely back to his nest before Ma and Pa Fantail return home.
Flit the Fantail features the cutest cast of lead characters. As well as the fantail family, a pair of rascally robins, a kaka and a kiwi, and a wise old ruru join the flock between the pages. As well as our unique birds, some of New Zealand's special flora also makes an appearance, with bright kōwhai and fern koru setting the backdrop to Flit's tale.
Kat Merewether, the author and illustrator of the popular Kuwi the Kiwi series, once again does a wonderful job.
Touted as the first in a series, the story is full of delightful language with alliteration galore. Print conventions are challenged and add to the fun, making the book a delight to read aloud.
Merewether's illustrations are unique and quirky, and this book is no different. Her signature whimsical style shines through. All the birds are cherubic yet realistic, each with their own quirks and expressions perfectly rendered.
The book is available in both English and te reo Māori editions, making it a treasured addition to any Kiwi kid's library.
It's sacchrine sweet, but the meaty values of the story still shine through. It is a heart-warming story about first adventures, friendships, and resilience.
Flit has a firm perch on our bookshelf, alongside Merewether's other creations Kuwi and Kiwicorn, and we can't wait to see who else will join the flock.
Reviewer: Rebekah Fraser
Flit the fantail is not allowed to fly – his parents want to keep him safe in the nest. But he’s bored and hungry. When a tasty midge lures him on his first flight it is a ‘flippy, floppy fail.’ Will he be able to get back to his nest with the help of his friends? There is Kiki the kaha, rascally robins Bit and Bob, Keri the kiwi and wise old Ruru. This is a heart-warming story about friendship and teamwork, with beautiful illustrations of native NZ flora and fauna. Lots of alliteration makes this a fun book to read aloud.
Additional comments: Karen McMillan
Scholastic, RRP $17.99