Simon in the Sky

Simon and David are playing hide and seek at the air show. Simon covers his eyes and counts to ten, very loud. David runs to hide among the shiny planes.

Simon tiptoes to a small, red airplane. He opens the door and slips into the back seat, neat as a pin. The seat smells like oil and sunshine.

A pilot with a big hat comes walking by. He doesn't see Simon and climbs into the front seat. The engine starts and the plane rolls forward.

The wheels lift off the ground. Simon's tummy tickles, but he laughs like it's a funny jump. The world below looks like toy houses and tiny people.

Up in the blue, the pilot turns and sees Simon. He gives a surprised chuckle and asks, "Want to try?" Simon's eyes grow big and brave.

The pilot helps Simon hold the controls. Simon gently steers and the plane banks left, then right. Below, the crowd points and claps as the little plane sails by.

The plane makes one soft circle over the field. David jumps up and waves his arms and shouts, "Simon!" The pilot brings the plane down safe and smooth.

On the ground, everyone cheers for Simon. David gives him a big hug and the pilot hands him a tiny paper pilot's hat. Simon smiles, tidy as ever, and says he will hide only on the ground from now on.