I Found a Dead Bird
The Kids' Guide to the Cycle of  Life & Death
Home Jan's Bio Kids' Books Visits Museum-in-a-Bag Fiction Store Fred's Art Slime Molds Links Contact Jan
Illustrating Q & A Dead Bird Step-by-step The Rumor Step-by-step Over in the Meadow Step-by-step
National Parenting Publication Awards (NAPPA) 2006 Gold Award winner!!
Opening spread -Dead Bird
Description
The above page is Jan Thornhill's jumping-off point for this intelligent, sensitive, and wide-ranging children's book about death and the cycle of life. Growing from the idea that death can be a frightening subject, but by not talking about it we sometimes make it more so, Thornhill guides readers through difficult but highly relevant terrain.

From lifespans to how things die to what happens after death to how humans mark and cope with death, Thornhill takes a comprehensive look at the subject. Conversational in tone and very much within a young reader's realm of understanding, I Found a Dead Bird explores fascinating aspects of life-and the end of life.

Thornhill faces the subject head-on and always tackles issues surrounding death with gravity and respect, even while on occasion injecting humor. The unique perspective is remarkably life-affirming as the book makes connections to the world around us, fitting death into the natural and on-going cycle of life. In her pragmatic style, Thornhill doesn't shirk from the reality, but she still gives readers scope to think on the more philosophical and spiritual matters surrounding death, without imposing any value judgments.

A lively design steers clear of the gloom of death. The dynamic brightness, multitude of photos and photo-illustrations engage readers on every spread. Unlike anything else on the market for young readers, this brilliant treatment of the subject of death fills a void.
I Found a Dead Bird presents information and issues that readers can ponder and discuss, fulfilling their natural curiosity and interest in life and death.

Reviews
''By writing so cogently about life in all its forms, Thornhill has succeeded in making death less frightening.''
- Globe & Mail
''This straightforward, 'no holds barred' approach to the subject will captivate children.''
- School Library Journal
''It's impossible to read this book without experiencing an exhilaration of curiosity and a prickle of awe at nature's dazzling complexity... It is a scientific awakening, an appeal to the mind, and a celebration of the twin miracles of living and dying.''
- Quill & Quire
''Thornhill's volume, liberally sprinkled with photographs, provides a wealth of accessible and intriguing information about life and death...youngsters will come away with a positive reaction to this visually stimulating and informative volume.''
- Publishers Weekly
Dead hummingbird cover Buy it!
Reading level: Ages 9-13
64 pages
Maple Tree Press
Hardcover: 1-897066-70-8
Paperback: 1-897066-71-6
Home Jan's Bio Kids' Books Visits Museum-in-a-Bag Fiction Store Fred's Art Slime Molds Links Contact Jan
Illustrating Q & A Dead Bird Step-by-step The Rumor Step-by-step Over in the Meadow Step-by-step
Copyright 2005 © Jan Thornhill. Please do not use without permission