Birdy

Eleven-year-old Birdy and her younger brother, Mouse, have always looked out for each other. After their mother dies of cancer, Birdy and Mouse are forced to move out to the country to live with relatives they've never met. Aunt Mitzie and Uncle Shadow's house is full of organized chaos, and it takes Birdy time to adjust to having adults around. There's only one problem: It's all temporary. Their social worker has promised to find them a permanent home by the next school year, whether they want to leave or not. As the summer unfolds, Mouse starts to feel attached to their new life. But Birdy knows better. When her fears get the best of her, she makes a mistake that could jeopardize their future.

Heartfelt and emotionally resonant, this beautifully written debut explores discovering where you belong and the unbreakable bond between siblings.

Pre-Order
Read Praise

Praise for Birdy

"Moss does an excellent job of bringing readers into the protagonist’s thoughts, making her standoffish behavior feel logical rather than alienating and showing how she evolves in her understanding of how to grieve a loving but imperfect parent. The book’s celebration of found family is heartfelt; the relationships change each of the characters in turn."
The Horn Book
"This coming-of-age novel delivers a profound exploration of grief, resilience, and the enduring bond between siblings. ... First-time novelist Moss’ nuanced portrayal of mourning, paired with richly drawn characters, creates a deeply affecting read. ... This resonant story celebrates the healing power of connection and the hope found in chosen family."
Booklist
Starred Review
Full Review
"Moss presents a gorgeously imperfect narrator who, after years of being a caretaker, must learn to be a kid and a member of a family with loving adults."
John Hopkins
Project MUSE on Birdy
Full Review
"I'm so excited for it to enter our classrooms, our libraries, our school libraries, our homes, and most importantly, the hearts of young readers."
Colby Sharp
Influencer, Teacher, Reader, Writer
Full Video Review
"Birdy is spectacular. I was hooked from page one and fell in love with the entire cast of quirky and unforgettable characters, including the animals. Readers will applaud Birdy as she feels her way through the aftermath of her mother's death."
Ann M. Martin
Author of the Newbery Honor Book A Corner of the Universe and The Baby-Sitters Club series
Author Site
"Some writers have a special gift to connect readers with their characters and their story from page one. N. West Moss is one of those writers. From the start, Birdy grabs our hearts, and we're invested in the pursuit that she and her little brother, Mouse, will find the right home. With the introduction of each lovable character, we find ourselves hoping, Here, here!"
Kimberly Willis Holt
Author of the National Book Award Winner When Zachary Beaver Came to Town and The Hurricane Girls
Author Site
"A moving intergenerational story about the power of love, loss, and chosen family. It shines with hope and resilience and second chances."
Elly Swartz
Acclaimed author of Same Page, Hidden Truths, and Dear Student
Author Site