Don’t miss out on the enchanting journey of Connie, the Lockheed Super-G Constellation Airliner, as she soars through history and hope. Sign up for exclusive updates and be the first to know about special events and promotions. Dive into a story that captivates both young readers and aviation enthusiasts alike!
A Heartwarming Tale of Hope, History, and High Flying Dreams
Connie's Tale Proudly Appearing on Bookshelves all Over!
Most recently Connie’s Tale has been added to selections at multiple new venues, including Missouri History Museum, Left Bank Books, and on board the Cunard Liner Queen Mary 2 Book Store, among others.
Discover the Journey of a Lifetime
Connie’s Tale is a richly illustrated 26-page children’s book inspired by the true story of a legendary 1950s Lockheed Super-G Constellation airliner. More than just a machine, Connie had a personality all her own—and her story called out to be told. This heartfelt narrative follows Connie through the heights of her glory days, the heartbreak of abandonment, and the hope of being rediscovered and restored.
Blending gentle humor with emotional depth, Connie’s Tale captures the resilience of a spirit that never gave up—even when locked away and forgotten. With nostalgic mid-century artwork, real historical photos, and a touch of whimsy, the story encourages children (and the grownups who love them) to believe in second chances, the power of dreams, and that even the dustiest past can shine again.
Ideal for classroom, library, and homeschool settings, this book aligns naturally with both Social-Emotional Learning (SEL) and STEM education frameworks:
- Themes of perseverance, identity, and emotional growth make it a strong addition to SEL curriculum.
- Historical references to aviation technology, global travel, and real-world engineering spark early STEM curiosity.
Educators will find the story valuable for discussions around change, resilience, and innovation, while young readers will be inspired by Connie’s personality, global adventures, and eventual comeback.
Author Robert Neal Marshall shares a deeply personal connection to this aircraft, having flown on multiple tours aboard the restored Super-G—including a rare visit to JFK International Airport in 2000 as part of TWA’s 75th Anniversary. From the roar of her four powerful engines to her distinctive triple-tail design, Connie was more than historic—she was iconic. The title itself, Connie’s Tale, reflects both the story (tale) and her signature triple tail—an affectionate double meaning for a truly one-of-a-kind aircraft.
Perfect for readers who love airplanes, history, or simply a great comeback story, Connie’s Tale is a timeless celebration of courage, kindness, and finding your way home—again.
The Heart of
Connie’s Tale is a beautifully illustrated children’s book that captures the heart and soul of a legendary Super G Constellation airliner. Once a queen of the skies, Connie’s journey takes her from international travel to cargo flights, and eventually to a forgotten existence in the desert. Her story is one of resilience and revival, as she is rescued and restored to her former glory, captivating audiences at airshows across the nation.
This enchanting narrative not only appeals to young readers but also resonates with aviation enthusiasts, history buffs, and educators. Through Connie’s eyes, readers experience the emotional highs and lows of her journey, learning about the rich history of aviation and the importance of preserving our past. The book’s vibrant illustrations and engaging storytelling make it a perfect addition to any child’s library, while its educational components provide valuable insights for classroom discussions.
A Glimpse into Connie's World
Illustrations & Characters... Sneak Peek!
Click Here To Learn More About the Illustrations
All illustrations in Connie’s Tale were created by author and illustrator Robert Neal Marshall through a highly hands-on, human-directed creative process. While AI-assisted tools were selectively used to generate early visual components—such as exploratory backgrounds or isolated parts—no complete characters or finished scenes were created by AI alone. The character of Connie was fully conceived and defined by Robert, then constructed through extensive manual effort using tools like Photoshop and Canva. This process included isolating usable elements, correcting structural inaccuracies, redesigning aircraft features, adding or reshaping engines, wings, propellers, and tail structures, refining facial expressions, adjusting colors and aircraft livery, and removing unwanted backgrounds and artifacts. Every image was built through layered composition, deliberate editing, and narrative design to reflect the story’s tone and emotional arc.
In accordance with U.S. Copyright Office policies, the limited use of AI was fully disclosed, and any raw AI-generated elements were explicitly disclaimed in the copyright registration. The Copyright Office requires that registered works be created by humans, and that any AI-assisted illustrations must contain “substantial” human authorship—not merely prompting, but meaningful creative contributions such as editing, arranging, and modifying the material. Robert’s work involved exactly this level of human engagement: selecting, reshaping, and creatively integrating components into cohesive, original scenes that meet the legal threshold for protected authorship. The U.S. Copyright Office reviewed the application and approved the registration accordingly. Connie’s Tale is a fully human-authored work in both story and imagery, where AI served strictly as a limited tool—never a creator.
Author/Illustrator - Robert Neal Marshall
Robert Neal Marshall is a writer, director, and lifelong aviation & maritime enthusiast whose passion for storytelling began when he was just a boy-and who remembers, as a kid, when people still dressed up to fly! His love of vintage aircraft and the magic of second chances inspired Connie’s Tale-a heartwarming story that blends imagination and history for kids of all ages. He is the creator of the critically acclaimed musical Rumpelstiltskin’s Daughter, currently in development for London’s West End, and a proud member of the Dramatists Guild. Through his Emmy®-recognized work in casting, along with thought-provoking stage plays and documentaries, Robert shares stories that uplift, entertain, and spark the imagination.
Robert has a profound connection to the legendary Super G Constellation known as Connie. His passion for storytelling and aviation history is beautifully woven into his work, capturing the essence of this iconic airliner. With a rich background in film and theater, Robert brings Connie’s tale to life, inspiring both young readers and aviation enthusiasts alike.
Robert has also served as a Guest Speaker for over 16 years with the Cunard Line. To explore more of his work, visit www.RobertNealMarshall.com.
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