Bird

Bird (2004) by Angela Johnson. New York: Dial Books. 133 pages.
ISBN: 0-8037-2847-6

Bird is living and hiding in a shed across from a farmhouse; she secretly eats the family’s food and takes baths in their home. Bird has come to Acorn, Alabama from her home in Cleveland, Ohio to find her step-father. The only father she knew, Cecil left without saying good-by.

While living in the shed, Bird is discovered by Ethan. Ethan, living in the farmhouse, has been homebound from illness and heart surgery. Bird and Ethan gradually become friends, helping each other out of their loneliness. Jay, another boy, also discovers bird and has a unique connection to Ethan. Jay’s sadden is relieved through time with Bird. When Bird meets Victoria Pritchard, a lonely widow, she lives with her for a while, enjoying each others’ company and feeling less lonely. While Bird is living in Acorn, she sees Cecil and thinks about talking to him.

This sweet story, told through the eyes of Bird, Ethan and Jay, reflects on peoples’ loneliness and how kindness and friendship alleviate its pain. Cecil is a distant character in the story; the reason for Bird being in Acorn. We see glimpses of him through Ethan and come to understand Bird’s longing for him, how she loved being with him. Nice read for 9 to 12 year olds.

More about Angela Johnson.