THE HUNT FOR THE NIGHTINGALE
|
|
Bird fact #30: a nightingale song is one of the most beautiful sounds on the planet.
Ten-year-old Jasper has been waiting all spring for his beloved nightingale to return to his garden and sing. But it's not there, and neither is his sister, Rosie. His parents seem sad and preoccupied, so gathering his courage, his backpack and his treasured Book of Birds, Jasper sets out alone on a walk to find them both. The expedition takes Jasper through town and country, meeting a host of characters who are also searching for lost things. As he helps each of his new friends, Jasper begins to realize that while he may not find what he is looking for at the journey's end, even in the darkest of moments a nightingale's song can be heard somewhere.
Sarah Ann Juckes' stunning middle grade novel, illustrated by the award-winning Sharon King-Chai, will have you turning the last page with tears in your eyes and a heart full of hope. For fans of Pax, Wonder and Wild Child.
Download an activity page for The Hunt for the Nightingale!
Download discussion questions for The Hunt for the Nightingale!
Ten-year-old Jasper has been waiting all spring for his beloved nightingale to return to his garden and sing. But it's not there, and neither is his sister, Rosie. His parents seem sad and preoccupied, so gathering his courage, his backpack and his treasured Book of Birds, Jasper sets out alone on a walk to find them both. The expedition takes Jasper through town and country, meeting a host of characters who are also searching for lost things. As he helps each of his new friends, Jasper begins to realize that while he may not find what he is looking for at the journey's end, even in the darkest of moments a nightingale's song can be heard somewhere.
Sarah Ann Juckes' stunning middle grade novel, illustrated by the award-winning Sharon King-Chai, will have you turning the last page with tears in your eyes and a heart full of hope. For fans of Pax, Wonder and Wild Child.
Download an activity page for The Hunt for the Nightingale!
Download discussion questions for The Hunt for the Nightingale!
"A beautifully written novel, pervaded with bittersweet and complex internal conflict."
-- Kirkus Reviews, STARRED
"Filled with beautiful illustrations and bird facts, this moving book addresses the complexities of sudden death for middle grade readers who will be drawn to the heartfelt characters and adventure plot."
-- School Library Journal, STARRED
"[J]uckes writes perceptively about mental health and the grieving process. Interspersed bird facts (a passion shared by Rosie and Jasper) and frequent black-line drawings will appeal to readers …"
-- Booklist
"The writing is magnificent … … the depth of emotion also helps one understand the grieving process … … will appeal to those who love nature and the gentle flow of powerful words."
-- Always in the Middle
"I think this is a great middle grade book to hand to a kid who might be going through a loss in their own life, or who is experiencing anxiety. Even though the outcome of Jasper’s search is sad, the overall message is hopeful... Good for fans of Pax or Wonder."
-- Youth Services Book Review