High up in an old apple tree lived a tiny bird named Pippa.
Pippa had bright yellow wings and a little pointy beak. She loved to sit in her cozy nest and watch the sky.
"Pip-pip!" she sang.
One sunny morning, Mama Bird said, "Pippa, it's time to learn to fly!"
Pippa peeked over the edge of the nest. The ground looked so far away! The world below seemed tiny.
"I'm scared," whispered Pippa.
"I'm right here," said Mama softly.
Pippa spread her wings. They were shaking. She stood on the edge of the nest, too scared to take a step.
Just then, a little breeze came by and lifted a feather. The feather floated down, twirling and dancing in the air.
"Look," said Mama. "She's dancing with the wind."
Pippa watched the feather swirl. It looked so light and happy.
"Can I do that too?" asked Pippa.
"Try," smiled Mama.
Pippa closed her eyes. She took a deep breath. And then — she jumped!
At first she dropped. Her little heart beat fast. But her wings opened wide, and flap-flap-flap — they started to beat!
Pippa was flying!
The wind gently lifted her up. Her wings carried her higher and higher. It felt wonderful!
"Mama, I'm flying! I'm really flying!" chirped Pippa.
She flew all around the apple tree, then landed on a branch.
"Again!" she asked.
And off she went. This time she wasn't scared.
All day long Pippa flew between the branches. She soared up toward the clouds and swooped down to the grass.
When evening came, Pippa returned to her nest. She was very tired but very happy.
"Flying is the best," she whispered.
Mama tucked her close under her wing. Pippa closed her eyes.
She dreamed of the sky, the wind, and feathers dancing in the air.
Outside, the apple tree rustled softly, swaying its branches as if to say goodnight.