This is How We Fly - shelf-to-table.org

This is How We Fly by Anna Meriano

4 Stars

“I know, I know it sounds silly. But I mean it. Don't measure yourself by their standard. Don't wear yourself out for their approval. Don't let their voice be the voice in your head. Just . . . let it go.”

This Is How We Fly by Anna Meriano is a sweet, heartfelt YA novel about that complicated in-between moment right before college, when everything feels like it’s changing all at once.

The story follows a 17-year-old on the brink of leaving home who just wants to enjoy one last summer with her best friends—but nothing goes according to plan. As friendships shift, family tension grows, and expectations begin to feel heavier, she unexpectedly joins a local Quidditch team in Houston with one of her friends. Through Quidditch, she not only finds a new passion but also discovers confidence, community, and parts of herself she didn’t realize she had been missing.

“Having questions is probably okay. Having options is good for everyone. And a sport that recognizes that people can change? That’s pure magic.”

As a huge Harry Potter fan, I absolutely loved the Quidditch elements. Even though there aren’t many direct Harry Potter references beyond the sport itself, the in-depth game scenes were one of the strongest parts of the book. The rules, teamwork, and competitive energy were written in a way that made the matches genuinely exciting and fun to read, and they added a unique layer that helped the story stand out.

Before the First Page

This book immediately caught my attention because it was set in Houston and centered around Quidditch. As someone who loves seeing familiar places featured in books, the Houston setting was a huge draw for me. The cover also did a great job highlighting the Quidditch aspect of the story, and as a Harry Potter fan, I knew I had to pick it up. The combination of a local setting and a unique sport inspired by the wizarding world made this an easy addition to my TBR.

Book Thoughts

Book Synopsis

Set during a sweltering Houston summer, this coming-of-age novel follows Ellen, a determined teenager preparing for the major changes that come with leaving for college. When unexpected restrictions at home derail her plans to spend one final summer with her closest friends, she finds herself searching for a new sense of purpose. That search leads her to an unconventional Quidditch team, where she is introduced to a community unlike any she has known before. As Ellen navigates shifting friendships, family tensions, and the uncertainty of growing up, she discovers new passions, unexpected connections, and valuable lessons about identity, belonging, and embracing change. Filled with humor, heart, and self-discovery, this story explores the challenges of moving forward while holding on to the people and experiences that have shaped you.

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One of my favorite aspects of the novel was the way it handled family relationships, especially through Ellen’s younger sister, Yasmin. Yasmin was such a charming and meaningful addition to the story and perfectly represented what it means to be a true younger sister. The way she clearly looks up to Ellen—watching, learning, and admiring her—added so much heart to the novel. She wasn’t just a background character; she played an important role in showing how much younger siblings are influenced by their older siblings, often without them even realizing it. I genuinely loved her character and the warmth she brought to the story.

The romance in the book is very soft and light—just enough to add sweetness without overpowering the main themes. I do wish we had gotten a bit more of Nico and Ellen, because their relationship was incredibly cute and felt like it deserved at least one more small scene or chapter moment. Still, the heart of the book is really about self-discovery: learning how to hold on to friendships while also allowing them to change, making space for new connections, and navigating complicated relationships with parents during a major life transition.

Overall, this was such a charming and comforting coming-of-age novel. It captures the uncertainty, excitement, and emotional growth that comes with standing on the edge of adulthood in a very genuine way. I truly enjoyed this book and would absolutely read more novels by this author.

Shelf-To-Table

A Tex-Mex meal would pair perfectly with this book. A chicken burrito loaded with beans, rice, and cheese feels like the kind of hearty, comforting meal you’d grab after a long Quidditch practice in the Texas heat. Pair it with an ice-cold strawberry lemonade for a refreshing drink, and finish it off with a fruity popsicle for dessert. The combination captures the book’s Houston setting and the laid-back feeling of a hot summer day spent with friends.

If you could join any fictional sport, what would it be and why?

I would love to be part of a Quidditch team! The idea of flying on a broomstick and feeling the breeze in my hair sounds like so much fun. If I had to choose a position, I think I would be a Beater. It would be exciting to protect my teammates while strategically sending Bludgers toward the opposing team. The fast-paced action, teamwork, and competitive spirit of the game make it seem like an unforgettable experience.