Rare Birds
Rare Birds by Jeff Miller is a middle-grade novel published by Sterling Publishing Company, Incorporated on December 5, 2023. This 288-page book is written in English and centers around twelve-year-old Graham Dodds, who navigates the challenges of his mother’s health issues while seeking a sense of belonging. Set against the backdrop of Florida’s swamplands, the story unfolds as Graham, a budding birdwatcher, embarks on a quest to find the endangered Snail Kite, all while grappling with the uncertainties of his family’s situation.
Readers will find a poignant exploration of adolescence and the complexities of family dynamics within the narrative. As Graham forms a friendship with Lou, a girl he meets at the hospital, they share an adventure that not only focuses on the rare bird but also on personal growth and resilience. The themes of health, social challenges, and the journey of coming of age are woven throughout, making this book a thoughtful addition to the juvenile nonfiction and fiction genres.
Official synopsis Publisher
Jeff Miller’s heartbreaking, coming-of-age middle-grade novel–inspired by his personal experience living through his own parent’s heart transplant–invites readers into the world of a twelve-year-old birdwatcher looking for a place to call home and a way to save his mother, even if it means venturing deep into Florida swampland.
Twelve-year-old Graham Dodds is no stranger to hospital waiting rooms. Sometimes, he feels like his entire life is one big waiting room. Waiting for the next doctor to tell them what’s wrong with his mom. Waiting to find out what city they’re moving to next. Waiting to see if they will finally get their miracle–a heart transplant to save his mom’s life.
When Graham gets stuck in Florida for the summer, he meets a girl named Lou at the hospital, and he finds a friend who needs a distraction as much as he does. She tells him about a contest to find the endangered Snail Kite, which resides in the local gator-filled swamps. Together they embark on an adventure, searching for the rare bird . . . and along the way, Graham might just find something else–himself.
Jeff Miller crafts a heartfelt story about what it means to live in this unforgettable middle-grade novel. Rare Birds is a rare find that will resonate with fans of the Carl Hiassen’s Hoot and Melissa Savage’s Lemon. For readers looking for novels with literary appeal and classic themes of family, friendship, and the meaning of life, Rare Birds is a perfect pick.
Hardcover with dust jacket; 288 pages; 5.5 x 8.3 in.
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