Review of How to Heal a Broken Wing by Bob Graham

Review of How to Heal a Broken Wing by Bob Graham

Candlewick Press

2009 Charlotte Zolotow award winner

If you were ever a kid (I hope you were) or had kids, you've likely experienced a moment when you saw an injured animal. If you live in cities with lots of trees, you have mostly likely seen an injured bird, or a baby bird that has fallen out of its nest. I ran across a tiny kitten once that had no home. I walked it to a nearby firehouse, and a fireman took it, washed it, fed it, and adopted it. In  the big city, when a bird flies into a tall building, and falls to the ground, I am sure few people take note. In this story everyone passes by the injured pigeon until a small boy notices. Will is a caring child who wants to help. His mother and father take part in showing him how the bird might get well -- but it takes time, and nursing. Finally, the bird gathers enough strength to fly away.

This story is about a world where even the smallest bird is important. It is a story about how the strong should take care of the weak. It is a story of how there are no quick fixes, but healing takes time. And it is a story where those we help may leave without thanking us, and our only satisfaction is knowing that we have made the world a better place. All of these emotions are captured in Bob Graham's story.

Bob Graham is an illustrator and writer born in Australia in 1942. Perhaps his most famous book is Jethro Byrd, Fairy Child published in 2002. Other well-known works are Max and "Let's Get a Pup," Said Kate. In 2012 he was awarded the Hand Christen Andersen Medal. 

For more about Alan Elliott visit www.alanelliott.com.