The Secret Language of Birds is an insightful and informative middle-grade novel. Author Lynne Kelly has a remarkable empathy and understanding of middle-school-aged girls. Whether it is the bug-loving “Ant,” book-loving Emma, or the narrator, Nina, who is convinced she can’t make friends, the characters and their conversations and actions are incredibly realistic. I can envision my grandchildren saying the same things. Ms. Kelly is also adept at recognizing the emotions of these characters. Each girl feels very genuine.
The novel becomes very informative when Nina spouts facts about birds, which she loves. Even more enlightening is the talk about whooping cranes, an endangered bird. Amazingly, a pair shows up and makes a nest in the marsh, although they have not been seen there for many years. This nesting elicits fascinating facts about whooping cranes and proper birding etiquette. I loved this book and think every middle-grade girl and nearly every boy of that age will love it equally.
Thank you to NetGalley and Delacorte Press. I voluntarily read and reviewed an advance copy of this book provided by Delacorte Press via NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own. ( )