Ellen Schwartz, illustrated by Sima Elizabeth Shefrin,
Abby's Bird
Tradewind Books, 2006

Rating: G*

When Abby and her family move to a new house, Abby is intrigued by their next door neighbour, Mrs. Naka, whose face is "crinkled like tree bark." Mrs. Naka explains to Abby that robins have been building nests in her tree for as long as she can remember. Together they comb their hair so that the strands will become pillows for the baby birds. Abby is delighted when Mrs. Naka shows her how to make paper cranes. One day Mrs. Naka falls and must go to the hospital. While Mrs. Naka is away, summer comes to an end and the birds disappear. Abby covers the maple tree with a whole flock of paper cranes, much to the delight of Mrs. Naka when she returns home.

This is a thoughtful story that looks at the close bond between two individuals who on the surface appear so very different. In a subtle way, this book teaches children empathy and concern for others. Through their love of the robins, Mrs. Naka teaches Abby crucial life lessons which help prepare her for times of sadness, such as when Mrs. Naka falls. Perhaps the most important gift that Mrs. Naka gives Abby is showing her the joy of giving to others.

The illustrations, crafted from paper cut-outs, are truly unique and will really appeal to children. The jacket cover includes instructions for making paper cranes.

Thematic Links: Birds; Friends; Origami; Paper Cranes

Zoë Johnstone
Vol. 12, number 3
February 2007

*Rating System:
E - Excellent, enduring, everyone should see it!
G - Good, even great at times, generally useful!
A - Average, all right, has its applications.
P - Problematic, puzzling, poorly presented.