The nature of small birds

Reviewed by:

Ceil Carey, retired public librarian and long time book discussion leader

REVIEW INTRODUCTION

Title:

The nature of small birds

Author:

Susie Finkbeiner 

Publisher:

Revell

http://bakerpublishinggroup.com/revell

Date:

2021

Format:

Paperback

Length:

359 pages

OVERVIEW

Family, what does it mean and who is part of it? Finkbeiner explores family in The nature of small birds, a wonderful and touching story about a tiny girl from Vietnam and her adoptive family.

Linda and Bruce decided to add to their family, anticipating a lovely baby boy. But when the opportunity to adopt Minh arises through an airlift from Saigon, with fear and trepidation yet excitement as well, the welcome her into their home. Minh immediately becomes Mindy renamed from her just a little bit older sister Sonny. 

Throughout the book, the analogy to birds, small birds, continues: the girls are as small birds, the parents want to let them spread their wings and many poetic references to birds as well. As time goes on, can the parents give Mindy the wind beneath her wings to find her birth family.

Told in three voices, Finkbeiner’s writing is exquisite, the story of a family growing together is extremely touching and readers will be so glad for the reading. 

ASSESSMENT

Rating (1 to 5):

5

Suggested Audience:

Adult fiction readers

Christian Impact:

Family and hope are the main ingredients in this lovely book.