Audiobook Review: Birdie and Me by J.M.M. Nuancez

Image: Penguin Random House

Birdie and Me by J.M.M. Nuancez. Unabridged e-audiobook. ~6 hours. Read by Jorjeana Marie. Penguin Random House Audio Publishing Group, February, 2020. (Review of e-audiobook borrowed from public library. Arc courtesy of publisher.)

This is an incredibly moving first-person narrative told by Jack, who, along with her much younger brother, Birdie, are still grieving the death of their mother in an accident. The book opens with them moving household. Again. They have been removed from freewheeling Uncle Carl, who never minded if the two skipped school to live with Uncle Patrick, who seems rather buttoned up and straight-laced. Indeed, Uncle Patrick insists not only that the two attend school daily, but also that Birdie change his wardrobe from a colorful, more gender-fluid style to totally boring boy-style. Uncle Patrick thinks the bullies will stop if Birdie looks normal. He doesn't see that he's telling Birdie not to be Birdie. But Jack does. Introspective and wise beyond her years, Jack is fiercely protective of Birdie. She resents Patrick's insistence that Birdie conform and the two run away. Or attempt to anyway. 

Jack's first-person voice captivates from page one. There's plenty of sadness here, but also tenderness and humor. The adults in Jack and Birdie's world are as at sea as they are, but they are trying to do the right thing. Though the two siblings miss their free-spirited mom terribly, readers slowly learn that life with her had their challenges.

Jorgeana Marie's narration captures Jack's determination and Birdie's free spirit in a well-paced, engaging performance. The press release says this title is great for readers who loved Counting by 7s. I absolutely agree. Hand Birdie and Me to readers who like sad books and/ or quirky characters who endear.