The Nature of Small Birds by Susie Finkbeiner | Review



The Nature of Small Birds by Susie Finkbeiner is the story of a family. The story is told from the perspective of the father (Bruce), mother (Linda), and one of the daughters (Sonny) in three different periods of time. We see their relationships with each other and their other family members. As their life story is told, the book revolves around the adoption of their daughter Mindy from Vietnam after Operation Babylift, and adult Mindy's search to learn more about her past. 

Throughout the book, Bruce loves to watch birds and pay attention to nature. Throughout the story, the birds become a metaphor for his daughters growing up and flying away. 

This is a really sweet story. I enjoyed reading through each characters' perspectives--I wouldn't say there were certain chapters I dislike reading more than the others. It's a very fast and easy read, and the story keeps your attention.

My biggest critique is that the story just....ends. I turned the page and was shocked when it was over. I didn't feel like anything was resolved. It felt like the whole thing was sort of pointless. Also, the 1980's "teen speak" as I call it was pretty unbearable. 

While the story of a clearly Christian family, their values are shared without being too preachy, which can be a difficult line to walk but I think it was done well.

Overall, I gave this book 3/5 stars.

*I received a free copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for a review. I was not required to write a positive review. All opinions are my own.
 

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