Corbin’s bipolar mother is often unemployed, and their apartment has no furniture, and sometimes no food. When his classmate offers Corbin the bird she can no longer keep, he’s all-in.
When things begin to spiral out of control and Corbin can no longer get his mom – or himself – through the darkness, he discovers his neighbors aren’t the unfriendly bunch he thought they were. Maybe this bird has a bit of magic in him.
Birdspell features celebrated author Valerie Sherrard’s trademark blend of humor and warmth. It’s a book about mental illness and poverty, but also hope, and the reminder that friends can be found anywhere.
All Lit Up: 19 Books for Canadian Children's Book Week | 2021 | Commended
MYRCA Sundogs Award | 2023 | Nominated
Diamond Willow Award | 2022 | Nominated
Forest of Reading Silver Birch Award | 2022 | Nominated
Hackmatack Children’s Choice Book Award | 2022 | Short-listed
A deep and beautifully written title that once begun is hard to put down. Despite the tragedy of the circumstances, the novel is a compelling story of strength, hope and compassion.