Pilot Down, Presumed Dead - Special Illustrated Edition
Harper Trophy Books (Paperback) Series
on Goodreads (180)
What’s inside...
Steve Ferris, a young pilot, crash-lands his plane on an uncharted island during a sudden storm known as a chubasco. As days pass without any sign of rescue, he realizes that he must find a way to return to civilization on his own. Marjorie Phleger's 'Pilot Down, Presumed Dead' is a special illustrated edition that explores themes of survival and man's interaction with nature, and has been featured on numerous reading lists since its release in 1963. Marjorie Phleger's classic tale about a downed Cessna pilot and his interaction with nature as he struggles to survive is now re-issued in a Special Illustrated Edition. Twenty-seven added images now make this popular book more readable than ever. Published by the award-winning staff of Adventure Books of Seattle, this is the hardcover edition with dust jacket.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
10-13
Length
224 pages
Text complexity
Character compass
Steve Ferris
Discussion points
What do you think helped the pilot stay hopeful during tough times?
How do you think being alone on the island changed the pilot as a person?
What would you have done if you were in the pilot's situation?
What is the significance of the environment in the pilot's survival?
How do the illustrations enhance your understanding of the story?
Tip: Role play these questions
To foster a deep connection with the story, relate the pilot’s experiences to challenges your child faces. Ask them about times they've felt alone or scared, and how they overcame those feelings. Encourage them to describe the images and explain what part of the story each picture represents. This helps in enhancing their observation and interpretive skills.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Resilience in adversity
Explanation: The protagonist faces extreme challenges after a plane crash and demonstrates resilience by finding ways to survive alone on an island.
Real-World Application: Children learn the importance of perseverance and creative problem-solving when faced with difficult situations, encouraging them to remain resilient in everyday challenges.
Example Lesson: Resourcefulness
Explanation: Throughout the story, the main character uses available resources creatively to ensure survival, including building a shelter and finding food.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to think innovatively and use the resources at their disposal to solve problems, whether in school projects or in unexpected situations.
Example Lesson: Hope and optimism
Explanation: Despite dire circumstances, the protagonist maintains hope and a positive outlook, which plays a crucial role in their survival.
Real-World Application: Instilling hope and staying optimistic can help children face personal challenges with a positive mindset, influencing both their emotional and mental well-being.
Example Lesson: Independence
Explanation: The main character's journey to survival showcases independence and self-reliance, as they navigate the challenges alone.
Real-World Application: This lesson underlines the importance of being self-sufficient and confident in one's abilities, useful in everything from school work to personal hobbies.