Giant Canadian geese flock to the shores of Lake Michigan every spring to build nests and raise their young. In the winter, they fly south to warmer climates, filling the skies with a cacophony of honking and all flying in strategic V-formations. It’s quite an impressive sight and is a key sign that winter is coming soon. In Pria Dee’s Little Moe Can’t Fly, a young goose, Little Moe, is having difficulty learning to fly. He’s slow at learning everything, from hatching from his egg to swimming in the pond. His siblings tease him and call him Slow Moe. Little Moe is frustrated, especially as the leaves start dropping off the trees and the air turns colder, signally the approach of winter. He’s afraid he’ll be left behind when his family flies south. His mama assures him that she will remain with him until he can fly. Little Moe tries harder every day after his father and siblings depart, but frustration and fear only intensify as each day passes. Will Little Moe be able to fly before winter really settles in?

Pria Dee’s picture book story, Little Moe Can’t Fly, is one of the Michigan Nature Stories series. The plot follows Little Moe as he struggles with his fears and inability to fly. The language is simple so young readers can easily follow along and learn some interesting facts about the Giant Canadian geese. There’s a section at the end of the story that shares lots of interesting tidbits. But the story is more than just about Canadian geese – it’s about determination, working hard and never giving up. It’s also about family bonds and, although the siblings do tease and torment Little Moe because he’s different, the family continues to work together as a caring unit. The illustrations are spectacular and certainly add another dimension to the story.

Pria Dee's children's book, Little Moe Can't Fly: Michigan Nature Stories, follows a Giant Canada goose in Michigan. Moe didn't hatch, waddle, or swim at the same speed as his siblings, and his brothers and sisters made fun of him when he was flightless. His mother continuously encourages him, but the weather is getting cooler, and Moe tries harder, but to no avail. His father leaves with his siblings to fly to a warmer climate, but Moe and his mother stay behind to wait until he can take flight. The season continues to change, and it doesn't seem like Moe will learn to fly until a possible predator frightens him into action.

Pria Dee speaks to the hearts of children who are developmentally delayed with her tale of gentle encouragement. No matter how long Moe needs, his mother is there to offer him support and guidance. This book could be comforting to children who may not be able to walk or do other activities at the same time as their age-related peers. The narrative is encouraging, and caregivers and educators can prompt a discussion about geese or childhood development by sharing this book with one child or a large group. The illustrations are vibrant and expressive, easily catching the attention of young children. After the story, the author provides facts about the Giant Canada geese in Michigan, from their coloring to their migration habits. Children who may feel distressed about their development or like stories about animals will enjoy Little Moe Can't Fly.