Birds on the Brain

Ever since I first read ‘Book Uncle and Me’ by Uma Krishnaswmi, it has become one of my beloved children's books. I have a special fondness for stories that revolve around books and reading, especially those that empower children to bring about change. Therefore, when I discovered Uma’s upcoming book ‘Birds on the Brain’, I was thrilled and immediately placed a preorder.

Reeni who is fascinated with birds, can often be found on her terrace straining through binoculars looking for the birds that may be flitting around her neighbourhood. Her two best friends Yasmin and Anil are also her classmates and they all travel together on the school bus, every day. When their teacher announces that they need to do a survey on a topic they care about, it is a no-brainer for Reeni who is determined to create a survey about birds. She assumes that her friends will share her excitement. Yasmin, passionate about books, agrees with Reeni's idea as long as they incorporate books. Anil, who loves karate, doesn’t seem as keen which leaves Reeni feeling a little hurt. 

As Reeni’s involvement in her project increases, she also learns to look at herself and her actions, as she accepts Yasmin’s and Anil’s responses to their assignment. The trio find a way to work together, involving their family and community. 

For her project, Reeni has decided to survey her community to assess their knowledge about birds. To her surprise, none of her neighbors are familiar with 'Bird Count India'. Despite this, Reeni is determined to involve as many people as possible in this global movement. This involves persuading the Mayor of the city to approve the event taking place in the city's largest park. However, the Mayor intends to prevent this event from happening as it would reveal the environmentally unfriendly nature of his city's policies.

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Book Uncle who features in Krisnaswami’s previous book plays a discreet, yet important role here and is someone I aspire to be ; ) 

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The novel delves deeply into environmental issues, incorporating birds, green spaces, urban design, and solar energy. I appreciate how the narrative seamlessly integrates the complexities of friendship, a crucial theme for young readers. The main character is portrayed as authentic, displaying traits of kindness and enthusiasm, yet also revealing a hint of self-absorption that prompts introspection in the reader, as it did for me. I admire how the author skillfully embeds this authenticity throughout the plot, from a frustrated bus driver to a betel-chewing laundry lady, from cunning politicians to urban planning enthusiasts. The story touches on moments of frustration when friends don't share the same interests, leading to a realization that their lack of enthusiasm may stem from unfamiliarity or a different passion consuming their attention.

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This is a wonderful, 'must read' middle-grade novel, laced with humour, warmth, and the need to look beyond self. 

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Go on read 'Birds on the Brain', and while you are at it, read the previous book, ‘Book Uncle and Me’ too!