The Flying Classroom

Gr 4–6—First published in 1935, this new translation introduces readers to the entertaining exploits of five boys in a German boarding school. A consistent tone of gentle, ironic humor pervades the book, starting with the prologue in which the author himself shares his unusual writing process. The story involves a school play, a battle between the schoolboys and the local town boys, and a reunion between two long-separated adults, among other plot threads. Lively stretches of crisp back-and-forth dialogue are balanced by the narrator's frequently amusing observations and commentary. A description of a "truly terrifying dictation test" is one of many expertly written humorous passages. While the antics include fistfights, pranks, and other mischief, more serious themes of family and friendship run through the tale, along with philosophical discussions about courage, poverty, and "what's fair and right." The five featured kids all develop into distinct characters, with Martin (the leader) and Johnny (the writer) taking more major roles. Trier's original line drawings, usually one per chapter, add just the right touch of visual detail and support the humor. Not surprisingly, there's an old-fashioned, sometimes sentimental vibe to this 80-year-old tale, which might limit the potential audience, as might the complete absence of any key female characters. The sly wit and creative storytelling are quite fresh and engaging, though.