Coo

When a human baby is abandoned near their Queens, N.Y., dovecote, a flock of pigeons raises her as one of their own. Clothing her in plastic bags and feeding her from dumpsters, they name her Coo and teach her to speak pigeon, protect the birds, and fear humans. But when Coo’s closest ally is injured, she must risk leaving the roof to find “healer” Tully, who feeds the pigeons and helps birds that are hurt. Though reluctant to trust the woman, Coo seeks her help again when dwindling winter food supply makes her a liability to the flock. Under Tully’s care, Coo learns about the human world: its comforts, its language, and its dislike of pigeons. As Tully and Coo discover that someone seeks to hurt the birds, Coo must decide whether she belongs with Tully or the flock that raised her. The story conveys powerful messages about love and friendship, compassion and belonging. Sweetest of all is endearing Coo’s steadfast affection and loyalty for those she loves—pigeons and humans alike. With this troop of quirky pigeons whose rooftop world is both strange and familiar, Noel has written a debut replete with hope, humor, and heart. Ages 8–12. [em]Agent: Katie Grimm, Don Congdon Assoc. (Mar.) [/em]