Written by David Almond, illustrated by Polly Dunbar. First edition, 2007. Candlewick Press.
"This charmingly illustrated, funny, fast-paced, seemingly simple story, is also beautifully tender and profound."
Lizzie's grieving husband deals with the loss of his wife, her mother, by losing himself, if not his mind, in practicing to be a bird in preparation for the Great Human Bird Competition. Daughter Lizzie supports her Dad, even as she needs him to be her father, not a bird, and helps them prepare to fly across the River Thyne. Aunt Dottie arrives to care for them and argue them out of their "barmy" scheme. There's also a Mr. Poop.
British author David Almond is recognized for delving into difficult, challenging subjects that encourage children to feel, to hope and believe, and to have courage. He is a recipient of the Hans Christian Anderson Award for Writing, the Carnegie Medal, and other prestigious awards.
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Condition: Fine/near fine. The dust jacket has a tiny closed tear on the front corner.
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