Columbina’s clan holds a special place in Mann’s world: they are responsible for burying pine cone seeds to help replant forests. From the beginning of this thoughtful novel, readers will grasp the beautiful symbiosis between Columbina’s family and nature, and, through Columbina’s eyes, Mann relays the vital interconnectedness of their environment, always with a nod towards cooperation and respect. Columbina’s bird’s eye view expertly shifts reader perspective, and Mann skillfully builds characterization from each creature’s instinctual behaviors: first-person musings of an ancient Whitebark pine tree, marveling at Columbina’s boldness and idealism, are sprinkled throughout the novel, while in other scenes the elders prevent young swallows from protecting a hummingbird’s nest with the rebuke, “Not our kin, not our fight!”
Mann’s striking presentation of this naturalist world—heightened by Steve Habersang’s pen-and-ink illustrations—combines instinctual wisdom with inventive adaptability. An integral part of Uplift’s environmentally conscious message revolves around humans—known here as the Tall Ones—who creep into even the most protected habitats, destroying the forests and putting bird species at risk. Columbina plays a crucial part in confronting the Tall Ones, accepting great personal sacrifice in her efforts to unite mankind and nature, and Mann ends the novel with a poignant reflection on the cycle of life in the natural world.
Takeaway: Beautiful portrait of nature’s cycles, from the perspective of a Clark’s Nutcracker.
Comparable Titles: Barbara Gowdy’s The White Bone, Laline Paull’s The Bees.
Production grades
Cover: A
Design and typography: A
Illustrations: A
Editing: A
Marketing copy: A
Penned by author Jessica Mann, this charming story tells the story of Columbina, a young Clark’s Nutcracker with a sharp intellect and deep curiosity. Raised in a high mountain wilderness, she challenges traditional norms and befriends an ostracized Belted Kingfisher named Halcyon. As their home faces threats from humans, Columbina realizes the danger posed by the Tall Ones. She must lead her fellow birds to work together to protect their habitat. The tale, narrated from the perspective of birds, explores themes of family, friendship, and environmental stewardship. Mann's passion for animal welfare and ecology translates into an enchanting and enlightening read.
Jessica Mann’s ability to anthropomorphize the bird characters without losing their natural essence was remarkable, making Columbina’s journey both relatable and inspiring as we lend our human sensibilities to her problems. Her rebellious spirit and curiosity are brightly penned with a confident and vibrant command of language, and her willingness to challenge traditions and forge new friendships in the face of adversity offers us the chance to follow along with a close narrative focus on her mission. The bond between Columbina and Halcyon, despite societal opposition, highlights the power of acceptance and understanding, and the unique ways in which they understand one another straddle the world of human communication versus animal bonds. There is a mystical and wise presence to the story, underscoring the deep connections within nature thanks to evocative imagery and emotionally intelligent mood-setting. The looming threat from the Tall Ones, representing human encroachment, is a poignant reminder of the environmental challenges today that evoke a sense of urgency and the importance of unity in protecting the natural world. Overall, Uplift is a highly recommended read for its captivating narrative and important central message.
