Janet, a teen wanna-be hairdresser, is Jack's best friend and part of a loose support system Jack and Birdie rely on.

When Birdie is bullied for his clothing choices, Uncle Patrick forces him to wear 'regular' boy clothes so he can just fit in. Most of all, they wish they could have their fun Mama back with her Wolf Days and creative games. Thank and her gender creative little brother Birdie have to move in with their stoic, stern Uncle Patrick, but they'd much rather live with their Uncle Carl. I can't remember the last time I loved a debut book this much. I would anticipate mostly older middle graders or younger mature middle grade readers to appreciate this emotional story, but there's plenty here for the YA crowd to discuss, as well.įor more children's lit, middle grade lit, and YA lit reviews, feel free to visit my personal blog at The Miller Memo! It also addresses bullying, regrets, and mental health. This is a story that addresses a wide variety of family dynamics, including questions about transgender behaviors and feelings. But sometimes it's important to peel back the emotional 'onion layers' and see more than what's visible on the surface. They know practically nothing about Patrick, except how gruff he seems.

But one day his ability to properly care for them is questioned and so they're eventually sent to live with their Uncle Patrick. After their mother dies they are sent to live with their Uncle Carl, who loves them deeply. And this is particularly the case since Birdie tends to be bullied due to his creative, colorful clothing. Jack is the mature older sister always seeking to protect her little brother. This tenderhearted story is of Jack and Birdie, two siblings who recently lost their mother.

Birdie and Me by J.M.M. Nuanez