I Can Fly (Little Golden Book)

Fans of the golden age Disney films and animation in general are very familiar with the brilliant career of color genius Mary Blair, one of the most important graphic and commercial artists of the century, and some of her best work is found right here between these covers. These beautiful illustrations are among the warmest and most engaging she ever did. "I Can Fly" is one of the very earliest (and best) Golden Books, and this miniature edition seems to be complete, unlike the more common modern reprints which are severely truncated. The color reproduction isn't a hundred percent accurate, either, but unless you want to spend considerable time at the swap meets or on eBay, this is your best bet. For more about Mary Blair (as well as Golden Books hall of famer Gustav Tenggren and many others) see John Canemaker's excellent book "Before The Animation Begins". Oh, yeah, and if you're a real little kid you'll find it much easier reading than this slightly pompous review.

I am 53 years old and my parents read this book to me. I loved it and always asked for this one to be read to me over & over. I was just about 3 yrs. old and had heard the story so many times, I could say it word for word by memory. During the years while moving, the book was lost. I always wondered what happened to my book. In 1975, after I had children I wrote a letter to Golden Books to see if I could get a copy, but they couldn't help me. About 6 yrs. ago, my sister-in-law was at a flea market and found a copy for me. I now read it to my grand daughter. I still enjoy the book, and love the illustrations.

If this is the same little golden book read to me over 45 years ago, it is a dear, sweet book. I read my beat-up version of it to my own daughter about 17 years ago and we both loved it. It is inventive, playful, and gives free rein to a child's wonderful imagination. Its delightful pictures and rhymes have remained with me throughout my life -- memorable!!