Through the Looking Glass Children's Book Reviews
Odd Bird Out
Picture Book
For ages 5 to 8
Gecko Press, 2011 ISBN: 978-1877467080
Robert is raven who really does not behave like a raven at all. He is “chirpy,” cheerful, and he loves to dress up, crack jokes, and sing. For a while the other ravens tolerate Robert’s outrageous unravenlike behavior, but eventually the day comes when they decide that enough is enough, and they tell Robert to “Skedaddle” and that he is “a scandal.”
Poor heartbroken Robert packs his bag, he says goodbye to his family, and he flies off. Far from home and feeling quite worn out, Robert takes a rest in a tree and he sings “a lonely song” to himself. Birds start turning up to listen to Robert, and soon the natural performer is telling them stories, singing songs, cracking jokes, and delighting his audience with his colorful clothes. Robert is a huge hit! Back at home though, the ravens discover that though everything is as it should be, something is just not right.
In this splendid book, Helga Bansch celebrates those people (and ravens) who are different. She celebrates the people who break the rules and who make the world brighter, happier, and more colorful.
With unique illustrations and a meaningful story, this is a picture book that will resonate with readers of all ages.
