A pilot has turned one of aviation’s most familiar sensations into a story aimed at helping children navigate uncertainty, with a new book titled Turbulence.
Author Robert Matthews said while the book is framed through the lens of flight, its focus is on emotional resilience, using turbulence as a metaphor to explain fear, discomfort and the feeling of being out of control.
Matthews said the idea was inspired by how both children and adults respond to situations they do not fully understand.
“Turbulence, in flight, is a perfect metaphor for life’s unpredictable moments,” he said. “I wanted to create a story that gently explains those feelings in a way children can relate to, while also giving parents a tool to start meaningful conversations.”
Drawing on his experience as a pilot, Matthews said the book aims to translate the calm, informed confidence pilots develop around turbulence into something accessible for younger readers.
“As a pilot, turbulence is something you learn to respect but not fear,” he said. “The idea is that just because something feels scary doesn’t mean it’s dangerous.”
The project is currently in production, with illustrations and layout underway, while a fundraising campaign is supporting publishing and printing costs.
Once completed, Turbulence will be launched through community and aviation events, as well as online, with all proceeds directed toward supporting youth in aviation.
Support the project here: https://gofund.me/eb46221a6