John and the Kite That Sat Down

John, Julia and Papou wait in a sunny field beside a red kite with a yellow tail.

John is ready. His kite has other ideas.

Listen2:57Pictures15 illustrated pagesEnjoy itRead or listen together

Written by J. Ladis & Haley Dell

A little look inside.

On Clean Monday, John takes a red kite to the field with Papou and Julia. He asks it nicely. He puffs with all his might. The kite stays on its yellow tail while everyone waits for the wind.

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From the book

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John carries the red kite and reel beside Papou and Julia. — On Clean Monday, John took his kite to the field with Papou, his grandfather. Julia came too. Papou had flown kites on this day when he was little. Now it was John's turn. His red kite had a yellow tail. It was going to be magnificent.

The kite rests on its yellow tail in the grass. — John held the reel. Papou lifted the kite. “Ready?” “Ready!” Papou let go. The kite sat down. Right on its magnificent tail.

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Good to know.

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For parents: story notes & sources

A day for kites

Clean Monday is associated with outdoor picnics and kite flying in Greece when the weather allows. John’s outing is one fictional family’s day. Greek families celebrate in different ways.