Flying Solo

Flying Solo (1998) by Ralph Fletcher takes place over one day in a sixth-grade classroom at Paulson Elementary School. The novel’s plot centers around a class having no teacher for the day when the substitute never shows up. With no adult supervision, emotions run high between the students, especially since it is the six-month anniversary of a classmate’s death.

Booklist describes Flying Solo as “sad, poignant, and funny,” while School Library Journal praises the work as “more thoughtful and poignant than most school stories.” The novel’s themes include responsibility, tolerance, and acceptance. The American author has written several children’s novels, picture books, poetry books, and writing guides.

Plot Summary

The novel is narrated in alternating third-person perspectives, with each chapter seen through the eyes of a different character. The story begins in Room 238 on April 28, when Mr. Fabiano, a charming and beloved sixth-grade teacher, is absent for the day. He leaves a note on the chalkboard informing his students that a substitute teacher, Mrs. Muchmore, will take his place. Mrs. Muchmore calls in sick, and through a series of mishaps, the secretary forgets to call in a new substitute. When no substitute shows up, the students in Mr.