Flight Test 101

The Mischief #6

by Amanda M. Thrasher

Join Lilly, Boris, and Jack as they embark on a thrilling adventure that will test their courage and friendship!

Excitement fills the air in the enchanting world of fairlings as Lilly, Boris, and Jack prepare for their first flight test! As they take to the skies, their journey quickly transforms into a whirlwind of unexpected challenges and delightful mishaps. With new expectations weighing on their tiny wings, the trio must navigate a tricky obstacle course that challenges their flying skills and the strength of their friendship.

Will they rise to the occasion and soar to success, or will they find themselves grounded for countless moons? Join these brave fairlings on a magical quest filled with laughter, valuable lessons, and the power of teamwork.

The Mischief Series invites young readers to embark on heartwarming adventures that celebrate friendship, resilience, and the joy of learning from mistakes. This delightful series encourages children to embrace challenges and cherish the friendships they cultivate, making it ideal for independent reading or cozy read-together moments. Dive into the magic today and discover why the adventures of Lilly, Boris, and Jack are a must-read for every young dreamer!

256 pages, Hardcover

Published June 10, 2025

About the author

Amanda M. Thrasher is an international award-winning author. She’s a multiple Gold Recipient of The Mom’s Choice Awards® (MCA), earning the award in multiple categories, including Young Adult, General Fiction, and Children’s Chapter Books. She’s a multiple Gold Medal and Bronze winner of the Readers’ Favorite International Book awards and was awarded a New Apple Literary Award.

Amanda was contracted to write a graphic novel for the Driving on the Right Side of the Road Program. The publication, What If...A Story of Shattered Lives is part of the Driving on the Right Side of the Road (DRSR) program, developed by the Law-Related Education Department of the State Bar of Texas Law Focused Education, Inc., and the Texas Municipal Courts Education Center with funding from the Texas Court of Criminal Appeals and the Texas Department of Transportation. The purpose of the program is to offer a preventive educational program to encourage responsible decision-making when it comes to obeying traffic laws and to following safe practices. The graphic novel titled What If … A Story of Shattered Lives was adapted into a reader’s theater for as few as five speakers or as many as twenty-six and remains part of the DRSR program.

CAPTAIN FIN was based on a screenplay by Kevin James O’Neill. Amanda was contracted to adapt the screenplay into a novel for Kevin. Kevin is a director, actor, and producer. CAPTAIN FIN the novel won a Readers’ Favorite International Gold Book Award and was the Gold Recipient of The Mom’s Choice Awards®.

Amanda shares her writing experience with others through school visits, trade conferences, and writing workshops.

Reviews

[Karen Brooks - TheTxLitChic · Rating 5 out of 5]

Flight Test 101 – A Mischief Book 6 YA

~Amanda M. Thrasher

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Rating: 5 out of 5.

In Flight Test 101, the Fairlings are preparing to take their inaugural flight test – a milestone that will expand their boundaries and lift flight restrictions. Under the watchful guidance of the elders, Lilly, Jack, Boris, Pearle, Ivy, and Rosie undergo a series of preparatory trials designed to hone their skills and confidence for the big event.

Among the Fairlings, Jack stands out as the fastest and most skilled flyer. However, during the obstacle course phase, he suffers a crash – colliding with a hidden obstacle just as he’s finishing the run. Thankfully, thanks to the quick response of the medical team and the ever-stylish, always-prepared spider friend Broderick (armed with healing tea), Jack’s injuries are manageable, though more serious than he’d prefer. His wrist is placed in a sling, a rod is fitted to stabilize his wing, and a generous dusting of fairy magic is applied to aid in healing.

As Jack begins his recovery, the elders deliver disappointing news: he may not be able to take the test on schedule. He’s given two difficult choices – take the test late and suffer a 25-point deduction (leaving little room for error), or wait an entire year for the next testing opportunity, watching from the sidelines as his friends gain their flight privileges.

In a heartwarming show of unity, the Fairlings decide: if Jack must delay, they’ll all delay. But with varying skill levels among the group, that decision could put some of their futures at risk. Will they hold true to their pact, or push forward – possibly leaving Jack behind?

Thrasher continues to excel at character development, crafting young characters so relatable and engaging that even adult readers will find themselves immersed in their world. Though targeted toward younger audiences, the Fairlings feel like familiar friends – like the children or grandchildren who frequent our lives with joy and adventure.

Flight Test 101 is rich in atmosphere. From the charming ‘shrooms (yes, the name is giggle-worthy!) to the enchanting fairy gardens, the settings are vivid and immersive. One of the story’s most delightful moments is the spontaneous moss bomb fights – playful scenes made even more entertaining when elders and special agents get in on the fun.

This installment continues the Fairlings’ journey with heart, humor, friendship, loyalty, and a strong sense of community, leaving readers young and old cheering for every fairy in flight. Whether you are 10 or 100, I would highly recommend Amanda M. Thrasher’s Flight Test 101 – A Mischief Book #6 for your next must read.

Thank you to Lone Star Literary Life and Amanda Thrasher for the opportunity to review Flight Test 101. As always, all reviews and opinions are of my own volition and left on a voluntary basis.

[Julie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Already being a fan of The Mischief Series, I had to jump on the next story with these sweet little fairlings. The series is a sweet upper elementary/middle grade set of books that teach important life lessons, such as friendship and teamwork, as well as personal courage and determination. Flight Test 101 continues the education of these little child fairies, and this time they are learning to fly fast and taking their testing to allow future flights rather than only hovering (two, not three inches above the ground). But fairies have their strict rules, and rules must be followed.

The cute story has a big message: standing by and supporting your friends is respectable, yet even decisions made from the heart can have consequences. The decision all the friends make, including the risks, is honorable and heartwarming - yet also makes you nervous for the little fairlings because the risk is high. I enjoyed how everyone worked together and even the elders felt compassion for these friends and did what they could to help them along.

The story is endearing and a fun read for kids and adults, because there is nothing more powerful than friends who have each other's backs. 

The fairy world in the forest is such a kind and friendly experience. All the characters in the series are fun, but a certain refreshment-bringing spider might be my favorite. 

Solid 4.5 stars

[Jennifer · Rating 5 out of 5]

Welcome back to the mushroom patch, where the fairies are a little French, the teachers secretly participate in slime bomb wars, and the local spider concocts the best teas for all ailments. At long last, fairy friends Lilly, Boris, and Jack are preparing to take their flight test! Jack has been waiting to take this test his whole life, while Lilly and Boris are less confident and certain of success. The friends have plenty of help in the form of their elders, forest friends, and, most importantly, each other.

Amanda M. Thrasher never ceases to charm and bedazzle with her Mischief series. I loved Jack’s journey, especially as his hopes of acing the flight test are dashed by an unfortunate accident. Children who suffer an injury or sudden illness and cannot play their favorite sport will relate to Jack’s struggles and find joy in his triumphs. And your heart can’t help but be warmed by how his friends choose to stand by him, even if it means risking their own tests. Another sweet highlight for me was Lilly and Boris’s friendship. Usually, Jack and Boris are glued at the hip, but with Boris needing extra help with flying practice, we get to see Lilly’s compassion and kind nature shine.

Flight Test 101 is the perfect light fantasy palette cleanser for anyone who needs a bit of fairy dust in an otherwise bleak world. Like all the books in this whimsical series, there is danger aplenty, but also an abundance of kindness, comfort, and love. The perfect cozy children’s chapter book to read with the little ones in your life.

[Marta Moran Bishop · Rating 5 out of 5]

I’m a huge fan of Ms. Thrasher’s books, in particular, The Mischief Series. Although written for the young, as I am young at heart, I absolutely adore this series.

Ms. Thrasher is a superb author, the attention to detail, character development, and ability to pull one into the story is amazing. You care about all the characters, you want them each to succeed and you feel as if you know them.

Flight Test 101 (the 6th book in the series) is more than delightful, it is filled with humor, loyalty, faith in yourself and your friends, adventurous. It is a thrilling read.

As you follow along with Lily, Boris, Jack, Pearl, Ivy, Rosie, and not to forget our favorite spider Broderick through the adventures of having to take their first flight test. A pact is made between the fairlings, after a dreadful accident to one of them, might prevent one or more of them not passing the flight test.

This book was so good that after finishing it, I had to give a blow by blow description to my husband, who laughed at the antics and characters.

I highly recommend this book to everyone, no matter how old you are.

[Kelly · Rating 5 out of 5]

I’ve adored tales about fairies since I was a child; I still remember loving the fairies in Grimm’s version of Sleeping Beauty (Little Briar Rose). I also enjoyed reading along with my daughter as she made her way through the Rainbow Magic series by Daisy Meadows, where each book featured a different fairy.

That’s why Flight Test 101 from Amanda Thrasher’s Mischief Series instantly captured my heart. It brings back that same sense of wonder while adding fresh layers of charm, mischief, and meaningful lessons.

What struck me first was the world-building. This is no generic fairyland. It’s a bustling, magical community full of whimsical details that made me grin with delight. From slimy moss bombs to a library ’shroom, from the dusting parlour where fairlings collect fairy dust to the turbo-charged dust used for healing, every setting feels richly imagined and oh-so-inviting.

Even Broderick the Spider, who serves tea and goodies to the students, adds to the sense that this is a lived-in, enchanting world. Fairy School itself, with the wise elders guiding their students in aerial choreography, is described so vividly that I could see them maneuvering obstacle courses, attempting the SkyWard Blast, and working together to master their important Flight Test.

The fairlings themselves—Lilly, Boris, Jack, and their classmates—make this book shine. Lilly, gifted with the Sight and just a little bossy, feels instantly relatable (I loved the detail of her breaking out in hives before the flight test!). Boris is endearingly clumsy and anxious, but so full of heart. Jack, the adventurous dreamer, pushes forward even when an injury sidelines him. And then there’s Pearle, who can fly with grace and speed but cannot walk. The way her friends fold her into their daily adventures, with creative problem-solving and genuine care, was deeply touching.

Madame Louise’s gentle morning greetings (“Good morning, precious fairy” and “Good morning, beautiful little one”) were a splash of joy. Who wouldn’t want to be woken up that way? These small touches make the fairlings’ world feel nurturing and safe, even when challenges arise.

What elevates this story, though, is its heart. These fairlings don’t just fly. They stumble, fall, and pick each other back up. When Jack is injured and at risk of failing, the others refuse to abandon him. Their “all-for-one, one-for-all” loyalty comes with consequences, but also with honor. The elders, in the end, recognize that the fairlings’ devotion to one another may make them reckless with the rules but reveals something more valuable than perfect compliance.

One line in particular stuck with me: “A tricky situation, both noble and irresponsible at the same time.” Isn’t that the essence of childhood loyalty? The story never talks down to young readers. It shows how doing the right thing, even when it leads to trouble, can still be worth it.

For me, Flight Test 101 was delightful from start to finish. It is full of enchanting detail, endearing characters, and life lessons woven seamlessly into adventure. Children will giggle at slimy moss bomb mishaps, hold their breath during obstacle course challenges, and quietly absorb the story’s deeper messages about teamwork, courage, and friendship. It’s also a joy for adults to read aloud. The whimsical scenes make it perfect for cozy shared story time, while the humor and heart will linger long after the last page.

Amanda Thrasher has crafted a well-paced, magical tale that reminds us that sometimes loyalty comes at a price, but standing together makes all the difference.

[Karen Siddall · Rating 5 out of 5]

A modern “Our Gang” series, with fairies!

Flight Test 101 is the sixth book in author Amanda M. Thrasher’s Mischief children’s fantasy series, which reminds me of the classic "Our Gang" television show, updated and featuring fairy friends. With its relatable young characters and dilemmas, this chapter book is engaging and entertaining and may keep the interest of the most reluctant readers. The book can be read as a standalone, so readers new to the series will have no trouble jumping right into the fairlings’ current adventure.

As the fairy friends approach their first flight test, confident Jack, the fairling who has been living for this day, is accidentally injured and now won’t heal in time to participate. The delay will put him behind all his friends for freedom in flight, so as a group, the others loyally decide to wait and test when he’s rescheduled. Unfortunately, with the delay comes a twenty-five-point penalty on each late participant’s score, points that some of the fairlings will desperately need to pass.

This latest Mischief adventure features all the fairling friends from the previous books and is full of giggles, slimy moss bomb fights, and fabulous treats baked by their resident spider friend, Broderick. Each small fairy is a distinct personality, some outgoing, some reserved, all with their particular likes and attitudes, including Pearle in her special chariot. They face a big decision and their fears when Jack, the best flier, is suddenly sidelined, feeling the need to choose to hang back with him rather than progress as scheduled without him. There are realistic discussions as a group about their feelings and how the alternative could impact everyone, especially Boris and Lilly, the two fairlings already struggling to achieve the needed scores to pass. Their gamble makes for an exciting and suspense-filled story.

I recommend FLIGHT TEST 101 for chapter-book-ready elementary age readers and older.

I voluntarily reviewed this after receiving an Advance Review Copy from the author through Lone Star Literary Life Book Campaigns.

[Jill Anderson · Rating 4 out of 5]

If there is a child in your life who could use some kindness, some joy, or some whimsy, then Amanda M. Thrasher’s Flight Test 101 should be at the top of your shopping list.

Flight Test 101 is book six in the Mischief series, but can confidently stand on its own as well. Thrasher competently weaves any necessary background knowledge into the story to ensure that the reader isn’t left feeling that they missed out on something in the tale of Lilly, Jack, Boris, and their friends as they face their first flight test. The trio is joined by fellow fairlings Pearle, Rosie, and Ivy along with dragonfly and spider friends as they practice (and play) in anticipation of the big test day. When an accident leads to injury, the intrepid group of friends must band together to make sure they can all succeed on test day.

An adult reader might feel a bit annoyed with some of the repetition in the story, such as the description of “hovering two inches—not three—above the ground,” but such repetitions are incredibly helpful for struggling readers. Adults might also fail to understand why a child returns again and again to a specific book or series. Familiar characters and repetition support a child’s efforts to grow as a reader. And they are a comfort in an often tumultuous world. Thrasher has created a lovely world filled with friendship, kindness, empathy, and understanding.

Above all, this story is remarkably gentle. I would highly recommend Flight Test 101 and the entire Mischief series for any young reader in your life who would benefit from a story where the little ones are surrounded by care and shepherded with love. Readers will not encounter scary or threatening characters. The tension arises in the struggles the fairlings face as they endeavor to learn new skills, meet and welcome a stranger, and try to balance supporting a friend against their own fears of failure.

[Jennie Rosenblum · Rating 4 out of 5]

I’ve been along for most of this series ride, and I’m happy to say the latest installment kept me grinning from page one. The gang of fairies is back with even more frolics, fun, and yes—dilemmas. Sparkles of magic pop up everywhere—whether it’s fairy dust, web jumping, or my personal favorite, those mischievous moss bombs.

Of course, it wouldn’t be complete without Broderick, the baking spider, tempting me with his endless parade of cookies and treats. (Seriously, one of these days I need to make cookies before reading another book in this series!)

This time, the spotlight lands on Jack, the adventurous and oh-so-lovable fairy, who finds himself facing a major setback. Watching how he and his friends handle the choices in front of them—whether to rally together or risk leaving someone behind—was both heartfelt and entertaining.
One of the things I admire most about this series is how the fairies approach responsibility. They aren’t perfect, but when they make a choice, they also deal with the consequences—sometimes with courage, sometimes with humility, but always with growth. At the same time, the adults in their lives provide a valuable counterbalance. When a different perspective is offered, the fairies actually listen and reflect, which sometimes leads them to rethink their decisions. It’s a refreshing reminder that guidance doesn’t always have to be heavy-handed to be effective.

Another thoughtful layer is the way rules are treated. Rather than being rigid or unquestionable, the fairies learn that sometimes a rule needs adjusting when all factors haven’t been considered. It’s handled in a way that feels fair and thoughtful—showing young readers that flexibility and fairness go hand in hand.

All in all, another magical, fun, and heartwarming addition to a series that continues to sparkle.

[Celia · Rating 5 out of 5]

Flight Test 101 by Amanda M. Thrasher is a children’s fantasy adventure book that is part of The Mischief Series. This is a great book (and series) that is perfect for younger readers (think, ages 6 to 10). The story is about three young “fairlings”, Lilly, Boris, and Jack as they prepare for their first flight test. This is a huge rite of passage for them and so it’s definitely a problem when Jack, who is quite skilled at flying, gets injured. Does the group stay together and wait for Jack to get better, but risk being penalized, or do the continue out without him?

Thrasher’s tale is such a great take on the meaning of friendship, resilience, and what it means to be part of a team. I believe it provides a strong foundation for young readers on the meaning of loyalty and support, especially when it's difficult. Such positive life lessons are great to cultivate in everyone, but especially younger people. What is also great is that the book is engaging and fun, so there are plenty of silly and amusing times to be had while also learning about life’s lessons. There are layers and I apprecaite in works for young people (and all people, for that matter).

I recommend Flight Test 101 to readers of all ages, but especially to our younger ones. It would make a great classroom book or a gift for the youngster in your life.

[Leslie aka StoreyBook Reviews · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is such a fun lower to middle-grade series to read. It will engage any reader, especially those who enjoy fairies. However, this is more than just entertainment; some valuable life lessons can be learned from the characters, primarily patience, disappointment, friendship, and kindness.

The gang of fairies is back as they prepare to take their flight test. They have been practicing, but a tragic accident sidelines Jack, and he might not be able to take his test this year. While not wise, Jack's friends decide to postpone their test too, so they can all test at the same time. This display of solidarity only strengthens their friendship.

While I haven't read all of the books in this series, the few I have read are sweet with life lessons embedded within. The characters are all kind, and I have a special spot in my heart for Broderick, the spider. He makes some delicious snacks, and I wanted to dive into the book to sample them all. I appreciate that the elders recognize when a rule needs to be amended for the benefit of future fairies. I think that several of the professors also look to this young group and are reminded of when they were that age and the fun times they had. Or maybe the mischief they got up to in their youth.

These books don't have to be read in order, but I highly recommend reading them in order so that you can follow this band of friends through all of their adventures.

We give this book 5 paws up.

[Jean Roberts · Rating 5 out of 5]

I don’t normally read children’s chapter books, but this one was too cute to pass up. This is the sixth book in the Mischief series. In Flight Test 101, Lilly, Boris and Jack and Pearle are gearing up for their first flight test. The youngsters are fairies, called fairlings by their elders, and are working hard to perfect their flying skills. If they don’t pass their test, they must wait a long time before they can retest.

Of course there are obstacles to overcome, including fear and disabilities, which I appreciated. The fairlings are supportive of each other and work collectively to pass the test, including delaying their test to keep together when Jack injures himself in flying incident.

With lots of wholesome messages about inclusivity, perseverance and cooperation, this is a great read for children ages 6-10. They will love the forest setting with various animals; spiders and birds, and of course who could fail to love a fairy?

A wonderful and heartwarming story, I rate this book 5 stars.