BIRDY, by N. West Moss, Christy Ottaviano Books, Feb. 17, 2026, Hardcover, $17.99 (ages 10 and up)
After the death of their mother, a girl and her brother are forced to start over in Birdy, an upper middle-grade novel by N. West Moss.
Eleven-year-old Birdy and her younger brother, Mouse, have always looked out for each other. They make the perfect team: Birdy is realistic and practical, while Mouse is affable and trusting.
After their mother dies of cancer, Birdy and Mouse are forced to move out of the city to the country with relatives they’ve never met. Aunt Mitzie and Uncle Shadow’s house is full of organized chaos, and it takes Birdy time to adjust to having adults around. But the kitchen is always stocked, and both kids are allowed to play outside as often as they want.
There’s only one problem: it’s all temporary.
Their social worker has promised to find them a permanent home by the next school year, whether they want to leave or not. As the summer unfolds, Mouse starts to feel attached to their new life. But Birdy knows better—adults have never been reliable. When Birdy’s fears get the best of her, she makes a big mistake that could jeopardize their future. —Synopsis provided by Christ Ottaviano Books
Birdy is a book about loss, love and learning to trust.
The story stars a bunch of quirky characters who readers will really connect with. There’s Birdy, a girl who has basically become a grownup, and when she’s asked to be a kid, doesn’t know how. Mouse, a boy who loves with his whole heart. Aunt Mitzie, who wants things just so. Uncle Shadow, who is a calming presence. Uncle Clay, a quiet man who loves nature. Uncle Clay’s pet racoon and goat, which add to the chaos. And a few other supporting characters that make the book feel complete.
The book follows Birdy as she works through her grief, anger and insecurities. With the threat of being sent somewhere else hanging over her, Birdy feels like she needs to prepare for the eventual move. That means guarding herself against more hurt and loss and making choices that aren’t always the best.
Author N. West Moss’ thoughtful approach to the subject, particularly Birdy’s anger. Everyone reacts to traumatic experiences differently, and it was nice to follow Birdy’s process.
Though Birdy is about two kids in foster care, readers will relate to many of the feelings and the concept of a found family.
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