Note: I received an F&G at an ALA conference. ( )

There is a fine line to walk when writing for children about the horror and deprivation of war, especially when that story is about a child of the same age. The author needs to inspire empathy and understanding without causing anxiety for the young readers. In My Beautiful Birds, Del Rizzo has done a masterful job of straddling that line and in doing so has not only given a beautiful story, but also a teachable moment for kids ages 4-10.

In this story, young Sammi and his family are forced to flee their home in order to avoid falling bombs. While seeing the destruction going on around him he is concerned for the pet birds that had to be left behind. His story continues when his family reaches the refugee camp where they will be living. Like the rest of the residents of the camp, he and family find a way to make the best of this horrible situation. There is hope in the people he meets along the way and the birds that he befriends around the camp.

I am not even going to be shy about admitting that I had no idea what this book was about when I picked it up. I simply judged this book as “need to read” by the positively stunning artwork on the cover, art that has been perfectly described as dimensional illustrations. I am fond of using a euphemism for ‘leaping off the page’ when it comes to talking about art in children’s books, but that is such pale terminology for what this book offers. If there were no text to tell the reader what is happening in the story, the reader would still be pulled in to Sammi’s world; Birds fly, the smell of smoke fills the air, you can feel the grit of the sand and the hear the rasping of canvas tents. Sammi’s fears and hopes have been rendered in infinite detail with this beautifully textured sculpted art.

The war in Syria and other parts of the world are in the news almost nightly. In addition to being a wonderful story, this book can also be a tool to explain to little ones about the war and the people it affects. It is told in a way that is completely accessible to kids and adults alike. It would make an excellent addition to any classroom library shelf.

I am looking forward to Del Rizzo’s latest release, in the fall, A World of Kindness

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Beautiful story! ( )

"Sami was feeding his pigeons when his home and his neighborhood were suddenly gone.

Sami and his family, Muslims, escape, along with everyone he knows. He's frightened by smoke and noise, and his father squeezes his hand and assures him his beautiful birds have escaped, too. Days of walking get them to a refugee camp and safety, but while the other kids play and adults try to create a sense of normalcy, Sami cannot join in. Days pass, then he sees four different birds, which land on his outstretched arms. He collects some seeds to feed them, along with paper and wool for their nests, and for the first time since leaving Syria, Sami finds some peace. He then has the strength to welcome a frightened little girl who arrives with a new group. Del Rizzo uses her considerable talent with paint, Plasticine, and polymer clay to create the colorful, highly textured illustrations for this book, which she conceived while searching for a way to explain the Syrian civil war to her young children. Based on a real refugee child who keeps birds, this story isn't about war but its effect on those who experience it and survive.

This story of one frightened little boy who finds strength in caring for animals and uses that strength to comfort other kids is an excellent means of explaining a difficult subject to young children. (author’s note) (Picture book. 4-10)" From Kirkus Reviews, www;kirkusreviews.com

Source: Junior Library Guild Selection
Age Range: 6-9
Evaluation of Quality: The art done in polymer clay is stunning in its beauty and the story delicately addresses emotions associated with displacement, trauma and loss.
Assessment of potential use: This book can be used to talk to child about the Syrian refugee crisis and is good for processing complex emotions.
Assessment of appeal to children: The art is very appealing and there is tension as to if Sami will see his birds again.