
A parent should reach for this book when their child is feeling adrift, lonely, or struggling to find their place, especially during a time of change like a move. This gentle, dual-perspective story introduces Sutton, a robotics whiz who feels like an outsider in her own science-genius family, and Luis, a passionate birdwatcher whose world is about to be upended by a move. They form an unlikely friendship, helping each other navigate feelings of being lost by using their own 'field guides' to the world. It beautifully explores themes of self-acceptance, identity, and the comfort of finding a kindred spirit. Perfect for introspective middle-grade readers, it's a quiet, affirming story that models empathy and celebrates being true to yourself.
The book gently and directly addresses gender identity. Luis is nonbinary and uses they/them pronouns. This is introduced naturally within the narrative and is accepted by Sutton without conflict, modeling positive and respectful allyship. The approach is secular and matter-of-fact. The book also deals with themes of social anxiety and the stress of moving. The resolution for all these topics is hopeful and centers on the power of supportive friendship.
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Sign in to write a reviewThis is for the thoughtful, introspective 9 to 11-year-old who feels a bit different or out of sync with their family or peers. It's particularly well-suited for a child navigating a big change, struggling with social anxiety, or starting to ask questions about their own identity.
The book can be read cold. The introduction of a nonbinary character is handled very gracefully. A parent might want to be ready to have a conversation about pronouns if the concept is new to their child, but the book itself serves as an excellent, low-stakes introduction. The parent has noticed their child seems withdrawn or lonely, or has heard them say things like, "No one understands me," or "I don't belong here." The child might be expressing anxiety about a move or feeling pressure to be like other family members.
A younger reader (8-9) will connect with the sweet story of friendship, loneliness, and the cool hobbies of robotics and birding. An older reader (10-12) will more deeply appreciate the nuanced themes of identity, the pressure of family expectations, and the quiet courage it takes to define oneself. They will also grasp the social-emotional importance of Luis's identity and Sutton's acceptance.
Its unique strength lies in the dual-perspective narrative that beautifully weaves together STEM and nature as metaphors for self-discovery. Furthermore, its seamless, positive, and conflict-free inclusion of a nonbinary main character is a standout feature, making it an essential text for normalizing diverse identities in middle-grade fiction.
Sutton, a robotics enthusiast, feels overshadowed and misunderstood by her highly successful scientist parents. Luis, a dedicated ornithologist, is grappling with the anxiety of his family's impending move. The two meet and discover a shared feeling of being lost in their own lives. Through their budding friendship, they use their respective passions, robotics and birdwatching, as frameworks to understand themselves and each other, ultimately finding a sense of belonging and direction together.
This overview was generated by AI based on the book's content and reviews, and may not capture every nuance.