Pen Pal Pilot

Each month a working search and rescue pilot, writing as Striker, sends kids a first-hand account of a real mission: the weather, the ocean, and the decisions made in the cockpit. The envelope also holds a hands-on extra such as a navigation chart to plot, a cipher to crack or a mission card to keep, plus a Log Book card with one short question to think about. No screens or logins are involved.

The subscription is $14 a month, with 3 and 6 month gift options. Sign up by the 1st and that month's letter mails by the 15th. Letters go to US addresses; international families are asked to email about delivery.

Written for ages 8 to 12, especially kids who love planes.