A Publishers Weekly best picture book of 2019! A CBC Best Book of 2019! A School Library Journal Best Book of the Year! A Horn Book Fanfare Best Picture Book of 2019! A Kirkus Reviews Best Book of 2019! A Quill & Quire Kids Books of the Year! SHORTLISTED for the 2019 Governor General’s Literary Award! A Globe and Mail top 100 books of 2019!
A tender, luminous portrait of art, nature, and connecting across generations.
When a young girl moves from the country to a small town, she feels lonely and out of place. But soon she meets an elderly woman next door, who shares her love of arts and crafts. Can the girl navigate the changing seasons and failing health of her new friend? Acclaimed author and artist Julie Flett’s textured images of birds, flowers, art, and landscapes bring vibrancy and warmth to this powerful story, which highlights the fulfillment of intergenerational relationships and shared passions.
A brief glossary and pronunciation guide to Cree-Metis words that appear in the text is provided on the copyright page.
‘[Birdsong] shows young readers how new friends can sometimes ease them; that this friendship is an intergenerational one between fellow artists is an especially sweet touch. Emotionally stunning.’ - Kirkus Reviews
‘Flett’s subtle, sensitive story delicately traces filaments of growth and loss through intergenerational friendship, art making, and changing moons and seasons. Cree-Metis words (defined in a small glossary) add an intimate layer of identity to the child’s lustrous narration, which shines against the spare beauty of rich illustrations by Flett.’ - Publishers Weekly
‘Simple and profound, this tender story is a reminder that finding a new friend can make a new place feel like home. Highly recommended for purchase.’ - School Library Journal
‘Birdsong is about embracing the many natural cycles that run through our lives.’ - Quill & Quire (Starred Review)
