Nerdy Birdy likes reading, video games, and reading about video games, which immediately disqualifies him for membership in the cool crowd. One thing is clear: being a nerdy birdy is a lonely lifestyle. When he's at his lowest point, Nerdy Birdy meets a flock just like him. He has friends and discovers that there are far more nerdy birdies than cool birdies in the sky. (goodreads summary)
Nerdy Birdy is looking for a few friends to share his interests with about reading and video games. Unfortunately Eagle, Cardinal and Robin really don't care and shun him because they are too busy being cool (or so they think). Nerdy Birdy finds there is another group of birds just like him and decides to join in making many new friends. But when Vulture moves into town and tries to join his new group, she is not accepted by the others as one of them because she is different.
Not only is this story cute but it packs a powerful message about what constitutes fitting in. Eagle, Cardinal and Robin are portrayed as strong and powerful and Birdy as nerdy with his big glasses, love for reading and talent at video games. When Vulture is rejected by both the cool birds and the nerdy birds, he remembers what it is like to be alone showing young readers empathy. While looking at the illustrations, kids will pick up on the funny descriptions of what the cool birds are good at and chuckle. In the end, Nerdy Birdy learns a valuable lesson about what being a friend really means. This story is a great opener for some wonderful discussions on differences, accepting others and being true to oneself. I think this is a "just right book" for ages 5-8.~
Title: Nerdy Birdy
Author: Aaron Reynolds, illustrated by Matt Davies
Pub. Date: September 2015, Roaring Brook Press
Genre: picture book
Hardcover, 40 pgs.
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