Common Sense Media Review
By Joly Herman
,
based on child development research. How do we rate?
Tender coming-of-age story about wildlife, personal growth.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 8+?
Any Positive Content?
Where to Read
Parent and Kid Reviews
What's the Story?
In THE SECRET LANGUAGE OF BIRDS, it's summer, and Nina's family is busy. Her siblings all have things to do, and Nina doesn't want to do the activities her mom has lined up. Instead, she decided to ask if she can go to her aunt's summer camp. Her parents agree, but Nina is worried that she won't make friends; she's made mistakes with friends before and doesn't always know how to act. At camp she meets a group of kids who are all new to camp, and soon she's a part of their group. While out breaking camp rules, they discover the nest of of a bird Nina is sure is endangered. They hatch a plan to protect the nest, which brings them closer. What would happen if they get found out?
Is It Any Good?
A shy girl follows her passion for bird watching in an inspirational story about connecting with nature and making new friends. The Secret Language of Birds shows that when oddballs find each other great things can happen. Like its predecessor, ALA award-winning Song for a Whale, The Secret Language of Birds suggests that one kid's passion for nature can move mountains. An inspirational story for sensitive kids, this middle grade book will be enjoyed most by nature lovers and those who crave a mild adventure.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about how curiosity motivates the kids in The Secret Language of Birds-- they have to get more information about the things they discover. What motivates you?
The main character meets friends at camp who work with her to help solve a problem. How do you use teamwork to solve issues?
The main character is very sensitive to the plight of animals, which motivates her to help them. What does compassion motivate you to do?
Book Details
- Author :
- Genre : Contemporary Fiction
- Topics : Activism , Animals ( Wild Animals ) , School ( Middle School ) , STEM
- Character Strengths : Compassion , Curiosity , Teamwork
- Book type : Fiction
- Publisher : Delacorte Press
- Publication date : April 9, 2024
- Publisher's recommended age(s) : 8 - 12
- Number of pages : 240
- Available on : Audiobook (unabridged), Hardback, Apple Books, Kindle
- Last updated : December 4, 2025
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