Odd Bird Out

K-Gr 2—Robert isn't your average, somber, all-in-black, know-it-all raven. He's a chirpy, joking, singing, outrageously dressed bird. Despite repeated criticism, he just continues being himself, much to the dismay of his flock. Finally, the other ravens can take it no more, and they tell him to "Scram! Skedaddle!" Sadly he does just that and flies to a distant tree where he commences to sing himself a lonely song. His song draws birds from all around. Soon a star is born, and Robert takes his act on the road, entertaining birds far and wide. Meanwhile, back at the raven's tree, a bit of regret has set in as things are sober, staid, and boring without Robert. Luckily, concert night brings a new performer, Bobby Raver, who shakes things up and inspires the ravens to be outlandish and have fun. Now if only they could figure out why he looks so familiar. The conversational text is paired with paintings that perfectly capture the raven's nature. Who knew birds could have so many facial expressions and disapproving postures? In his wildly colored outfits and high-heeled shoes, Robert shines amid the status quo, whether he is dancing with a squirrel or telling juvenile jokes in a swimsuit, flippers, goggles, and snorkel. Pair this one with Lynn Munsinger's Tacky the Penguin (1988) and A Porcupine Named Fluffy (1986, both Houghton) for a storytime of odd animals out.—Catherine Callegari, Gay-Kimball Library, Troy, NH