Given to Fly

by J.D. Estrada

John Rivers is a kind and imaginative 11-year-old who is about to learn that magic not only exists, but is closer than he thinks. After strolling up a hill near his house, he finds a cliff with a cove at the bottom and a huge tree growing over the water. What’s special about this particular tree is that it currently serves as the resting spot for a house that defies logic while embracing the amazing. As curious as he is kind, one look at Od Manor would have been all it takes for him to consider heading into the sideways house, but when he sees a shadow inside, he climbs down to make sure no one is in trouble. Once inside, he discovers that no one is in trouble but that the term living room has never been as literal as when an ottoman starts asking questions. The house’s owner is called Fäet Odstein, which would be odd enough if he weren’t also the literary persona of JD Estrada. Adventure ensues as Fäet discovers that John dreams about flying. Intent on helping the boy out, they seek the help from a library pillaging bookworm, angels, spiders, and even take a moment to contemplate at the meaning of life in the linen lagoon as they try to discover what it takes to fly.

Influenced by Hayao Miyazaki, Peter Pan, and dreams of flight, Given to Fly is a book full of heart that skips the violence in favor of the fantastical.

Given to Fly is the 13th book by Puerto Rican indie author JD Estrada. It is a work that shies away from violence in favor of exploring the inner child we all have that is always ready and willing to dream.

Genres: Middle Grade

108 pages, Kindle Edition

Published December 1, 2018

About the author

After years of working in advertising, I figured there were better ways to write fiction. Born on August 13th, I share birthdays with Alfred Hitchcock and Fidel Castro... an interesting coincidence since mom is Cuban and I love a good story.

Truth be told, ever since I was a kid I dreamt about being an inventor, I just didn't know I'd end up doing it using words. Where some people choose to invent new products, I’ve chosen to invent worlds through words.

In college, I studied psychology for 3 years before realizing that if I finished, I'd need a psychologist for myself. Not being too enticed by the whole full circle nature of that trajectory, I switched to Marketing, Advertising... and Psychology. Seems I just couldn't let it go.

A lover of Science Fiction and Fantasy, I’ve always loved writing and connecting with people. Mind you, although I love these genres, my reading tastes are as eclectic as my musical passions. So from rock to salsa to classical music, I also read and write in a variety of genres and am just as satisfied writing a review or a poem as I am working on my next novel. My obsession with the human aspect of who we are is deeply embedded in most of my work and my first book is no exception. Only Human is the first link within the Human Cycle, a three-book exploration of humanity through fiction.

I’m currently working on several projects, consistently put out free material on the blog (jdestradawriter.blogspot.com) and I rant with zest on Twitter via @jdestradawriter. I also have and instagram account (@jdestradawriter) if you want to see what I’m getting up to or what delicious beer I may recommend pairing with the book your reading.

My favorite band is Pearl Jam, I was born in Puerto Rico, I bodyboard and to me, playing a guitar is as therapeutic as a bleeding into a notebook with my pen. So by all means, visit, say hi and connect.

Peace, love and maki rolls.

JD

Reviews

[Pae Veo · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have now read this book three times, and each time, there is the same feelings of curiosity. J.D. Estrada has created characters that feel familiar without any complicated acquirements attached. It in not an easy task, creating a character that the reader relates to immediately, while still having that character stand alone. When John Rivers explores Od Manor, he meets Fäet Odstein, a personality that we all know while simultaneously meeting for the first time. Like a stranger we meet, and know immediately that we will get along with, despite knowing virtually nothing about them. With Odstein, Estrada has taken familiar tropes and created something unfamiliar, which is why his character is so relatable without being able to pinpoint why.
As a middle grade novel, this character writing is what younger audiences gravitate toward. They know the characters in film/books they like and finding a way to give them that familiarity through original characters and setting can be difficult. Especially when it is also put together with wit, colour, and a sentimentality will strike a chord with any reader.
I was going to give the book to my sister to read to her kids, but after the third read, I decided I will have to get her another one, as I would very much like to keep this one on my shelf.

[Sandy · Rating 5 out of 5]

If you’ve read any of J.D.’s work, you’ll know he pours himself into every thought; and Given to Fly is no different.

I love the creative world J.D. has imagined. Nothing acts the way it was meant to, but everything is the way it should be. (Read the book if you want this sentence to make any bit of sense.)

I love the references made to classic books from different eras. He’s even inserted his own work in a way which still makes me grin.

What I love most about this book are the takeaways. Kids of all ages can identify with different parts of the story, but this can also be viewed as a guidebook for wading one’s way through tough times. Nobody is perfect. We all make mistakes. It’s ok to rely on others in our time of need. Don’t be quick to judge. Find a way to overcome preconceived notions.

This review is just the tip of the iceberg.

[Sarah · Rating 5 out of 5]

Given to fly is quite a hullaballoo. It was funny, a bit existential and definitely inspirational. LOVED it. Loved the characters, the odventures, and the wonderful way it was written. There are stories where you feel so comfortable and this is definitely one of those. You are transported to another place. I wish I could meet with the witches and the angel again, in the beautiful tree. 🌳💖

[Sandy (Ms Reads A Lot) · Rating 5 out of 5]

Utterly charming

I was engaged in this book right from the first line. “There was a boy who dreamt of flying” The story follows a young character named John whose family decides to move in order to get a fresh start after his father loses his job. They move to a house that has a tree growing out over the cliff.

As John is exploring, he sees a house on its side in the tree! Thinking he hears someone in trouble, John decides to investigate. The story really takes off from there. It is a magical house from the moment John enters. The residents of the house all try to help John achieve his one dream, which is to fly. “Dare to dream, he heard in his mind and his dream was enough: flight. Glorious flight so he could dance with the heavens and kiss the clouds” 😍😍😍

Much of the brilliance of this book centers around the little discoveries woven throughout the book and I won’t spoil them for the reader. Magical discoveries everywhere! As an adult reader, there were little and simple things that made me smile (like the last name of the gadfly) and important lessons for both young and old. Accept people for who they are, show compassion and kindness, and dreams can be achieved in many ways.

John is utterly lovable and sweet showing a politeness that is often missing today. This is a book that I would love and hate to see adapted to the screen. Love because I want to see it and hate because I doubt it would live up to my expectations.

I put it at 4-4.5 stars only because I wanted the ending to last a little longer and be resolved a little differently. Overall, an excellent read recommended for both young and old!

[Lana (Lore & Lullabies) · Rating 5 out of 5]

"Staring at the sky, infinity finally gains perspective. The canvas of possibilities stretches out for anyone to dream."

Wow!! I have never read such a whimsical and lyrically beautiful book of familiar unfamiliarites.

This book made me long for the days of climbing trees with reckless abandon in my youth. It also made me feel privileged to be able to pass down, share, watch and encourage these feelings and adventures in my own children.

"It is a wonderful thing for a child to express his curiosity. But you must take the time to really listen to the answers you get...

This was nostalgic and yet something entirely new for me. "Doubly pleasant and triply surprising" as Fäet Odstein would say.

Given to Fly is about a mature 11 year old boy, John Rivers, who dreams to fly. He discovers Od Manor and it's caretaker Fäet, who tries to help him make his dream come true.

I picked up on the nod to Pearl Jam as soon as I saw the title and it made me want to read it more as a fan of them since childhood. This was a beautiful wholesome read, that seemed an ode to many things that bring out passion and adventure in so many of us. Young and... less young alike.

I finished this feeling light, happy and hopeful but also something else that sits on your chest. I mean this in the best way but have tried multiple time to describe it and I can't. Similar to when you want to cry happy tears for a stranger but not quite. Like I said, I can't describe the feeling but, thank you JD for sharing this story and a part of your heart.

[Berger M.P. · Rating 3 out of 5]

This is a whimsical take that made me feel like a kid again. I love reading this sort of stuff.

+can we take a moment to appreciate the cover art. It's so good.
-took a while to get the hooks into me, a slower build up which sometimes works and sometimes doesn't.
+the imagination of this reader is wild and it only gets more and more stranger as the book goes on
-/+not sure if the POV jumping really worked for this story or not. I wanted to be in the kid's head throughout the entire adventure. There is some perspective that comes from the switching though which is nice, I just didn't think it merited the time spent in another POV.
-conglomeration of many ideas that some I think need a little bit more fleshing out or maybe just needed the axe
+Sexy Spiders
++Car Adventure
+this story kind of feels like an episodic adventure of a cartoon where its a new theme each and every week you tune in. I kinda dig it!

[Sophie Brousseau · Rating 5 out of 5]

I came across a review for this book which said it was an ideal read if you were feeling stressed out and needed an escape from reality and it was exactly that.

The story follows John, a young lad who wants nothing more than to learn how to fly. One day whilst on an outdoor adventure he discovers a magical house full of weird and wonderful characters. It is here the real od adventure begins and we follow his escapades in a world of talking furniture, friendly musically talented spiders and angels.

If Roald Dahl wrote for Pixar this is something I imagine as the result. It’s quirky, fun and suitable for all ages. There are strong moral messages of loving thy neighbour and accepting everyone as they are which are subtly weaved in throughout.

The author transported me to a beautiful imaginary land which warmed my soul and kept me entertained throughout. I don’t think you can ask for much more!

[Nadia · Rating 5 out of 5]

I read somewhere that life is a living flute. Perhaps a long melodic chorus and with the words that my novelist and good friend, JD Estrada wrote, I felt that “draem” awaken in his newest masterpiece, Given To Fly. His danceable perceptions within the storyline, the discovery of character(s), the poetic reassurances and resurgences…(can’t give away too much now.) I stumbled upon pieces of my own magical thought processed self. His flow of words are like a melody, piercing the soul and pulsating our own amazing inner self. I shall have my Tulip Tea in the Terrace and admire the giddy madness. It’s a novel that certainly can be used in any classroom setting, bringing together an interesting “odventure” for one and all.

[Alba]

A mature 11-year-old boy sets off to explore the grounds surrounding his new home. His family is undergoing a series of changes and losses for which our young heroe is emotionally prepared by nurture and nature.

Yet he is still just a boy and despite the inner fortitude he exhibits to his parents, he would really rather fly. His trek leads him to an enchanting house on its side in a tree overhanging a precipice (beautifully illustrated on the cover). Inside the house is where the "odventure" truly begins, as the fantastic creatures he finds there may or may not grant his wish.

This is a sweet book with a sense of humor. The main character may be a child, but the themes and issues can definitely appeal to middle-grade readers.

[Dan Sem · Rating 5 out of 5]

I jump in to discover how to fly along with John and the od adventure. Given to fly is a beautiful story to enjoy. Highly recommended to dreamers of any age. It was fun to read and discover clues of famous books, movies or pop culture while reading.

[Lily Bloom · Rating 5 out of 5]

In our current world that is filled with so much negativity and violence, J .D. Estrada's book Given to Fly is the perfect example why books and stories are magic(al), and why they will always be loved - in whatever form they reach audiences. This book is filled with so much happiness. I smiled several times while reading it, and I even got teary-eyed a little bit - happy tears. This is the kind of book I would have loved to read when I was 11 (or even younger), and a book which if I had a son or a daughter, I would proudly and carefully wrap it and put it under the Christmas tree as a gift.
What J. D. Estrada achieved with this book is so wonderful, and while I expected to enjoy this book as soon as I heard about it, I am impressed beyond expectations. This creativily-woven story deserves to be read by as many children and adults as possible.
We all are and were once a kid and this book will remind you so much of that and why we should dream of flying, if just for a little bit, every once in a while (if not more 😊).
I could give you concrete examples of what I loved in this book, but I don't want to spoil it for you at all. It would also be tricky to choose because I love so many things about this book. I urge you to open its pages and explore it for yourself, beloved reader. Expose yourself to a story that will captivate your imagination in lovely and mesmerising ways.
I found a few missing commas but that is the only thing I would dare to complaint about if I'd had to. I'm sure this is not something readers will notice much - they will be too much taken on the flight of creativity and joy while reading this book.

Thank you for the smiles and the wisdom - they are highly appreciated. This is a memorable book.
Thank you so much for writing this story!

[Sunshine Somerville · Rating 5 out of 5]

I smiled the entire time I read this book. It's sweet, fun, colorful, imaginative, and includes wonderful lessons for any child or adult. The wordplay often made me chuckle, and the writing proves Mr. Estrada is a poet even in prose. The story reminded me at times of "Alice in Wonderland " and at times of "Charlie and The Chocolate Factory" while always being unique as well. Great characters, fantastical adventures, beautiful language - I was hooked.
 This is a book I will definitely buy in paperback for my kid to treasure.

[Felix Cortes · Rating 4 out of 5]

It's a very cute ride. I enjoyed it a lot.

[Maricel Jiménez Peña · Rating 5 out of 5]

Whimsical, magical, fun, and full of JD’s personality that shines through in everything he writes. This book is for anyone with their inner child still alive or anyone needing to awaken that kid.

[Bianca Bowers · Rating 5 out of 5]

The story of Given To Fly was a refreshing return to the reading days of my childhood. What I mean by that is that the author relied on good old fashioned imagination and adventure to tell this story, as opposed to the fallback position of violence that is so prominent in today’s youth culture.

My favourite scene is between the kung-fu master, Hero, and the boy protagonist, John. Mostly for its ability to comment on key social and environmental issues. When Hero throws a mango pip into the valley below, the boy remarks, “isn’t that littering?”
Hero, commenting perhaps, on the lost of art of conversation in our device-dense-world, tells the boy: “that forest below? I’ve planted it one conversation at a time.”
Later in the scene, Hero asks John why he dreams of flying and says: “You want to fly, but have you asked the wind for permission...I’ve learned that some people become fixated on some things without really having a reason and fully expecting life will give them what they want, just because.”

Technically, I tripped over the occasional awkward sentence, but overall the joy of the story carried me through.

I would sum this book up with this quote from Chapter 12—“the wonder in his eyes reflected how amazing life can be when you allow yourself to find adventure.”

[Isaac Suau · Rating 5 out of 5]

Previous to last year's Puerto Rico Comic Con I had not heard of this independent author that belongs to the same I island I live in, and I'm glad I did. I gotta say J.D. Estrada did a great job here and he should be proud. Easy to get into this charming and simple story I was able to find the main character quite appealing. The setting is charming and fun. Halfway into the book I was starting to feel a bit disappointed due to the lack of conflict, but after meditating about it I realized I had it all wrong, the book isn't a standard story with a basic formula, it's just an escape from reality and into a world many of us as kids wanted to experience. As I understood this I grabbed a hold of the full charm of this. Though the author might not be Roald Dahl, he certainly has this work that would make him proud. My only complaint is the short time we had to meet many characters that would've been interesting to have been better developed.

P.S. Me being a horror fan I needed a break from tension stories and hateful villains, and this book was perfect for me to not feel stressed, but instead as light as a cloud that has been Given to Fly 9/10

[Maria Carvalho · Rating 5 out of 5]

I thoroughly enjoyed this highly imaginative tale of a boy who wants to fly. It's a winning combination of a wholesome, pure story with a positive message that also provides many laugh-out-loud moments. The cast of characters the boy encounters in the strange house he discovers - including a literal living room full of furniture that is alive - is utterly creative and original, and I couldn't help but smile at the wit and imagination that imbues this engaging tale. My only quibble was the occasional awkward sentence (easily fixed by some well-placed commas in most cases), but the many charms of this delightful book made it well worth the read. This is a book that can be appreciated by kids and adults alike; kids will enjoy the fun adventures and colorful characters, while adults will also pick up on the many nuances and life-lesson messages woven throughout the story. Highly recommended!

[Melissa Bird · Rating 5 out of 5]

Sometimes you need unexpected fantasies to knock your door.

I'm having a very difficult moment in my life, and this short book has made me some company.
It's a beautiful, sweet story about a boy who wants to fly and in his search finds so much more.
Sometimes, I wish an owl would bring me a letter, Gandalf would pick me up for an adventure, a boy would get to my window looking for his shadow and the list goes on. I can say, I wish to could find Faet and his Or Manor on my way up to a hill. I wish I could meet Talula and ...
There are well-constructed characters you would like to meet.
Oh! I almost forgot, I loved the references to '90 music, especially Tori Amos.

[Alexandra Roman · Rating 5 out of 5]

This story reminded me of the times I spent outside in my backyard when a kid imagining I was in another world while climbing a tree. It has that old charming type of narration that makes you feel calm and immerse yourself into an odventure. It has a few touches of classic stories here and there, those we grew up with and cherish. Yes, I enjoyed this read for it took me back to my childhood and the hundreds of times I escaped reality.

[Amarinske · Rating 4 out of 5]

4 stars with an average of 7.75/10
My rating system:
1 star: 1.0-2.9/10
2 stars: 3.0-5.4/10
3 stars: 5.5-7.0/10
4 stars: 7.1-9.0/10
5 stars: 9.1-10/10
Rating based on: plot, characters, and writing (2x)

Plot 8/10
This book tells us the story of 11 year old John who moves to a new house and discovers a house in a tree. This house, however, is situated sideways and upon entering John has a very odd experience. This totally fits when we discover the house is called Od Manor. Almost from the moment John enters the house, he and the caretaker are looking for a way to realize his dream of flying.
I liked the way the plot developed in the way of traveling through different rooms in the house and meeting a lot of different characters with a lot of different views and ways of life. We have the classical J. D. Estrada twist on mythological/fantastical creatures that is nicely executed and just an overall nicely done plot that dives into the philosophical aspects of dreaming and flying as well as just the actual way of finding a way for John of fly on his own.
I loved it.

Characters 8/10
I liked all of the characters in this story and one of the biggest points was that John is wise beyond his years. This, of course, is fine as a character trait. To me it felt a bit too much at points though, especially when it feels like is talking like someone that is maybe at least 5 years older than he is (only based on vocabulary here). This was most visible to me when John was with his father, not because it didn't happen in Od Manor, but because it felt a little bit jarring outside of Od Manor.
I do think, however, that his curiosity was well written, it reminded me a bit of the way Nat acted in Only Human, but slightly more like a child would. I think it was great we had such a perceptive main character.
I loved seeing Ms. Faun again. She always gives me such nice motherly feels and is generally a very helpful character. Mother Time did appear at a great point in this story.
Faet (or J. D.'s literary persona) is very helpful and kind too. He was so nice and fatherly and I loved the way that character dealt with everyone around him. It just fits.
All the other characters brought some nice sparkle to the story, especially the ones living in or visiting Od Manor. So many new things to discover.
And as a little twist we did get to see an angel who was screwed up due to I guess Egnalem or it's derivative (a drug in Shadow of a Human). I think it's great we got to see that too.
The way these characters were put into the story was great. You don't have the other books beforehand, but if you have, you'll recognize characters or sometimes even other things. It's a great of making clear all the books are actually set in the same world without actually stating it. A great way to show instead of tell.

Writing 7.5/10
For me this took a little time to get into, because if felt slightly uncomfortable in the places outside of the house and John being on his own. When he is on his own, the childlike magical thinking is done well, but the scenes with the parents are just OK to me.
Based on the way this was written it almost borders between a low fantasy and a magical realism, and I love it. This borderline are is one of my favorite settings (not the urban, but the actual low fantasy :D).

General enjoyment 7.5/10
This felt so wholesome, especially in Od Manor. The fact that this book is about dreaming to fly and tips on philosophical questions was a lot of fun to read about and very well done. I couldn't fully believe that John, the MC that's 11 years old, is so wise and thinks with the vocabulary of someone in high school/college. The book was still solid and had that slightly more innocent feel of a middle grade fantasy.
I also liked the cameos/mentions of some of the characters of the Human Cycle or even just other book titles/worlds from JD's other books. Like Nathaniel, Ms. Faun, and Sherbet Shore as well as Only Human. And I liked the references to other books and titles of well known books that popped up in the story.

[Joanie Chevalier · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a book that can be read to children to make them sit still (or act out the scenes on their own). It is a delightfully imaginative story and I can definitely see this in a theater as a wonderful play. This book has it all: unique characters, adventure, life's lessons; it cues all the senses: hearing, tasting, feeling, seeing.

J.D. Estrada has a way with words: "Natasha put her hand on the strings on the lap guitar and began plucking staccato whispers of notes like melodic rain falling down from a symphony of clouds."

"...flowers have a certain way in which they giggle that sounded to him like angel hiccups."

A must read for all who love to imagine another world.

[Marleen · Rating 3 out of 5]

2.5 stars. Sadly not the book for me. There are some imaginative and whimsical elements to it, but I didn’t like the writing style. I feel it needed another round of editing to fix the repetitions and mixed tenses, and the tone confused me, not sure what age this was intended for. Alas. Love the cover though.

[Marilyn Ward · Rating 4 out of 5]

Full of fun and charm

A delightful and witty story of an adventurous boy who dares to dream, I enjoyed this uplifting tale where I came across familiar characters from other stories by JD Estrada

[Raul · Rating 4 out of 5]

My first book by Estrada and this was wonderful. The writing was beautiful, the characters were great, and there was a dreamlike and whimsical quality throughout. My only complaint is that it was too short! I wanted to stay in this world a bit longer and have more time with this cast of characters.

[Nicki · Rating 5 out of 5]

I don’t think a book has made me smile so much yet also taught me life lessons that I wish I could’ve learned sooner. The book gave me nostalgia for the fantasy movies I had watched when I was young. At the same time, it has more creativity and layers to it.

Just as the characters do for the young main character, John, the book talks to the reader like an equal. And I think that’s what makes it enjoyable even as an adult.

I bought this at comic con and met the author, and he signed it. In this one(I had bought three), he wrote a note saying that he hoped that I would enjoy reading it like he enjoyed writing it. I hoped he did in fact wrote it with the same enjoyment as I did, because I enjoyed this very much.

[D. Howlett · Rating 5 out of 5]

One of the most refreshing reads I have had in a LONG time!

I am usually an epic fantasy reader fan but shifted gears to dive into this little gem. I am so glad I did! This book was a breath of fresh air for me. It was fun, quirky and at times, had me chuckling to myself at the characters dialogue.

J.D. Estrada did an excellent job of creating a complete 'Wonder Emporium' of memorable characters & compelling story about the magic of being a kid and following your dreams. It was inciteful and full of wonder.

I can't wait to read this to my kids one day.

[Anais Chartschenko · Rating 5 out of 5]

All of the characters- and there are a lot of them- are sympathetic and kind and lovely in their own ways. There are a lot of pop culture references hidden throughout the story, and finding them adds another layer of fun. All in all, a great story with a magical manor in an unlikely place!

[Melissa ♥ Dog/Wolf Lover ♥ Martin · Rating 4 out of 5]

Lovely little book 🥰

Mel 🖤🐶🐺🐾