The illustrations are done in a very similar style to David Graham's other books (think "Let's Get a Pup!" Said Kate), but the lighting and the sparsity of text makes the images incredibly powerful. This is a soothing story and the bird's successful recovery is incredibly uplifting. Perfect for those seeking stories about healing broken bones, taking care of wildlife, or simply a story with a happy ending.
Overall Grade: A+
The True Story of Sellina by Italian-American author Matteo Pericoli contains many similarities to David Graham's book as both describe a bird alone in the city who needs help. Instead of having a broken wing, however, little Stellina has abandoned her nest as a baby and is unable to care for herself until Pericoli's wife Holly finds her and takes her in. Pericoli describes how Holly would take care of the little bird and how Stellina would become a part of their lives. Touching and sweet, the text is written in what seems to be lines of free verse poetry
Overall Grade: A+
How to Paint the Portrait of a Bird is an adaptation of a poem by French author Jacques Prevert. Translated and illustrated by award-winning illustrator Mordicai Gerstein, it is a beautifully poetic story that is not so much about healing or even birds, but about the power of art. The story provides instructions on capturing a bird to paint, beginning with directions to sketch an inviting birdcage to attract the bird. The fantasy of this procedure is whimsical and filled with child-like creativity as it celebrates the creative process and creative solutions to difficult problems. The illustrations are beautifully rendered and seem to call to mind the very portrait that the poem calls its readers to paint.
Overall Grade: A+