Coming Home

In this sophisticated story with a tangential holiday theme, understated text and art follow a Scandinavian robin on its annual Christmastime migration from its northern homeland to Britain. (An introductory note offers the scientific basis for the story.) Morpurgo’s free verse (“Take me home, my wings, carry me home”) captures the bird’s resolve and resilience as he escapes the clutches of a hawk and battles inclement weather to reach his destination, where a loved one awaits him. A mutation of thrushes invite him to join them, temporarily easing his angst. Then he loses the birds in the fog and flies “blind in a world of white,/ Lost and quite alone,” until he lands on a boat pitching in wild seas and finally reunites with his mate. Digitally composed pictures by Hyndman (Survivors) feature a cool palette (save the robin’s scarlet breast) and position crisp, lifelike images of birds against more abstract, loosely drawn natural backdrops. Ages 3–7.[em] (Oct.) [/em]