Ann Braden has done it again! Somehow she is able to tell a great story with relatable characters. Each chapter was titled one of the main character’s names: Libby, Jack, Vincent, and T. I really enjoyed getting a glimpse into each character’s life. It’s too bad real life isn’t like that. The parents were such dysfunctional characters, it’s a wonder the kids were even able to function. I think this book offers good lessons on how small acts of kindness can make a difference in more ways than we can know.

Thank you to the author and NetGalley for an eARC of this book.

Told from the perspective of four young people (Libby, Jack, Vincent, and T), this story highlights our interconnectedness, and the power of our actions to bring hope in ways we can't even predict.

Libby starts by writing index cards with inspiring messages on them. She mails one across the country to Vincent, a boy she doesn't know, but whom she discovers is being bullied at school. Vincent finds this surprising encouragement to be helpful, and uses his new perspective to help T (who remains a mystery for the first part of the story, so I won't reveal any spoilers here). Their stories all tie in with Jack, who is struggling to help keep his small school from closing, and draws widespread attention when a comment he makes is misinterpreted on the national news.

I really liked how this story demonstrates each kid's individual struggles, but the thread of hope that unites them through the messages. I think it's important for kids to realize that they aren't alone in what they're feeling, and sometimes the empathy they need can come from a complete stranger. I love how one voice can start a chain reaction of positive change, and that we may not even know the extent of our reach. And I appreciate that the author isn't afraid to tackle difficult topics with sensitivity and compassion.

This is more than a book. This a journey of emotional highs and lows, that will grab your heart and pull you into every character written. Okay, so it sounds a little cheesy, but it's totally true.

Flight of the Puffin follows the challenges of several young people, and how they learn to love themselves, and others. We start with Libby, who has a passionate, colorful soul that nobody seems to understand. She starts spreading her colors using illustrated cards, that she leaves around town. Those cards begin to show us how a ripple can spread, and inspiring one person can lead to a whole trail of love and life lessons.

Libby's actions end up affecting the lives of the other young people in the book. There's Jack, who learns that even when you mean well, sometimes you can be missing the chance to do better. There's the triangle enthusiast Vincent, who finds his power by facing his own hard truths, and reaching out to those different than himself. And, there's T, a nonbinary character who's on their own, because of who they are.. but you'll have to read the book to find out more about how it all connects.

This is a beautifully crafted story that really approaches gender, particularly being nonbinary, with this gentle, but honest take. I really loved that the author showed growth in people who may not have understood being transgender and/or nonbinary before.

I also feel like, while none of the characters are specifically written as Autistic/neurodivergent, that Autistic people will really relate to several of these characters.

There are also some very heart wrenching family dynamics that play out in this book. I was incredibly impressed by the way the children and parents were connecting, despite their flaws, and their ability to grow together. It was not a magical fairy tale, but it showed the possibility for better understanding and growing together as a family.

This is a fantastic, beautifully written book, but, pretty emotionally intense. I don't say that in a negative way at all, but especially for younger readers, there may be some intensity, especially if they are sensitive to things like death (as my daughter is). There is an accidental death talked about in the book, so readers should be aware. But, please don't let that turn you away from this spectacular book that has so much to share!

I received this book as an eARC from NetGalley to review.

A poignant, tender middle-grade that deftly portrays each character’s struggle and search for acceptance in an accessible way. Readers will find something to relate to in each and every one of these characters, and will be eager to spread their own “index cards of positivity” throughout their communities after reading this story. A powerful novel of hope and solidarity, of how one voice for change can gradually grow into a powerful multitude. Ann Braden has written another unforgettable book.

Flight of the Puffin is the story of how kindness can change the world, one person, one note at a time. Libby is a young artist who just wants to create and share the colors that she sees in the world. Jack is trying to save his little world, even if it means going against some powerful adults. Vincent is the child of an artist, but has the heart of a scientist. He is obsessed with triangles and puffins! And T is trying to find a place in this world. Braden weaves together these stories in an unforgettable tapestry of love, forgiveness, bravery and spunk that leaves the reader feeling much better about the state of our world. Sometimes an author's second book does not live up to the first, but not here! Braden has masterfully brought to life her characters in exactly the way that she did in The Benefits of Being an Octopus. Reading the last page was like saying goodbye to your best friend. I was sad it was over, but knew that this story will stay in my heart forever. Flight of the Puffin is exactly the medcine we need after such a tumultous 2020. I recommend it for any reader who believes in the power of kindess and wants to make the world a better place, from 8 to 80! It is already preordered for my library!

Thank you to the author, Ann Braden, and to NetGalley for sharing an eARC of this book in exchange for an honest review. As I sit with tears streaming down my face, I can't help think how much a book like this is needed in the world. I can't wait to get this in the hands of middle school students when it comes out in May.

Ann Braden, author of THE BENEFITS OF BEING AN OCTOPUS, has again written a truly remarkable book. It’s a story that allows us to see how one small act of kindness spreads comfort and connection to four kids who are desperate for understanding and support.

Libby loves art and only encounters adults who are quick to prejudge her (after all, everyone knows she comes from a family of bullies) and who discourage her creativity. Jack, who has a huge, giving heart, but carries the weight of his grief and guilt over his little brother’s death, has a macho dad and uncle who don’t support his individuality. Vincent, a compassionate boy who is a math whiz, just yearns to be accepted as himself by his classmates. And finally T, who is a runaway living on the streets of Seattle with a scruffy dog, yearns for their family to accept their sexuality.

I loved the four kids in the story so much, but my heart broke for each of them as they struggled to be understood and to be allowed to be themselves. However, even as I grieved for each of them and wanted to reach out, gather them into a big hug and assure them all would be okay, I also was in awe of their strength as they courageously fought for what they believed in and for acceptance by family and friends.

Finally, it’s a story about how the four children, each desperately in need of a friend and understanding, find each other even though they are separated by as much as a continent. And it’s a story about the kindness, compassion and hope that enables this all to evolve

Just as with Ann’s first book, you’ll need a box of tissues by your side as you become part of these children’s lives, but you’ll be so happy you did. They’ll be in your heart for a long time. This is one for grades 5-8 and it’s one librarians need to order NOW. It’s out 5.4.21.

This inspiring middle grade novel by one of my favorite #kidlit authors will be released in May! I fell in love with @annbradenbooks writing when I read her first book, The Benefits of Being an Octopus, two years ago. Whereas Octopus was a deep dive into Zoey’s journey for inner strength, Puffin is an airy flight that lights down for a glimpse at four different characters and how their unexpected connections lift them up.
My favorite thing about Ann Braden’s work is her talent for expressing characters’ inner thoughts in a way that makes the reader empathize and understand them. I admire the character of Vincent, and his thoughtful determination to express himself, despite bullies at school and a mom who means well but mostly wants him to fit in. My heart breaks for Jack, who deals with tragedy and misunderstanding with thoughtfulness and kindness. I root for Libby, who fervently and innocently just wants to paint the world in the bright colors of hope and joy. And I want to sit down next to T, and let them lean their head on my shoulder and just breathe.
In a world where we’re being bombarded daily with images and words of divisiveness and hate, we need books like this. This book is about loving others around you enough to let them be themselves and loving yourself enough to be yourself. It is about listening, learning, trusting and changing. Puffin reminds us that what we see when we look at people is not all there is. It reminds us that just because something has always been one way, it doesn’t mean that’s the way it has to be. And most of all, it reminds us that we’re not alone.
Message me to preorder your copy! 📚❤️🕯🐧📚

Thank you @annbradenbooks, @penguinkids and @netgalley for the e-ARC! #flightofthepuffin #read #books #indiebookstore

You'll love the main characters and how they deal with the problems in their life. There is such a strong message to be yourself and to be positive even if no one else is. I can't wait to share this book with my students and fellow teachers. This book would make an excellent book club or a whole class read aloud.

Flight of the Puffin by Ann Braden is a touching story that reminds us that we are all connected, whether we want to believe it or not. Told from the perspective of four middle schoolers, each one is going through their own personal struggle. Being bullied for being different, being misunderstood by their family, facing the guilt of the loss of a sibling and school closure, and surviving on the streets because of not being accepted for being non-binary by their family.

At first all four people seem to be in their own bubble of strife. That all changes when one of them leaves positive messages around town for others who are feeling low. Libby recalls her art teacher's advice: create the world of your dreams! How, Libby wonders? One line at a time. These positive messages reach the other three in ways that end up changing their lives.

Through difficulties of understanding new perspectives, like living as a transgender person, each person comes away with an appreciation that they aren't alone. They can reach out and be supported by not only their loved ones, but by complete strangers, too.

As a teacher and school librarian this story hits especially close to my heart. The importance of getting to know your students and their stories creates a bond and relationship that can help improve their lives. Braden writes each person's viewpoint with incredible authenticity. When Vincent is bullied at school he expresses this by saying, "The sound of a slamming metal door is loud when you're outside a locker, but it's even louder when you're inside." This is what Braden has done with this novel. She brought us inside each of these young people as their thoughts, fears, and hopes resonated loudly for the reader to take in and take action in their own lives to be more empathetic to issues facing our society's youths.

This book was just such an uplifting story. The kids were certainly going through some tough situations, but in the end were working hard to support others.

Any middle school student who has experienced bullying, homelessness, family troubles, or being "different" will find this book speaking straight to them. Ann Braden's beautiful story does not gloss over the hard stuff kids face. Instead, she gives her characters the strength and means to face bullies, to talk to family about difficult situations, and to speak up for what they believe. Libby has the heart to lift others' damp spirits even when her own are drenched. Flight of the Puffin will show middle-grade kids that even small gestures can make a huge difference in the life of someone else.

Wow, I finished this book and sat with it for a bit just to keep it to myself. Such a powerful story with 4 characters that readers will immediately love.
Each character is going through a struggle to figure out who they are, and what to do.
Libby feels invisible but sees everyone around her. She wants to build a world she loves - even if that means choosing art despite what her parents think. She tries to break free from what others say about her family and knows she's not like them. She starts leaving beautiful notes and messages around town on index cards, which starts the fight of the puffin.
Vincent is happy being who he is, even when the bullies stuff him in a locker and he's constantly teased. He runs into a mysterious kid living on the street and decides to do something to help.
T is that kid living on the street. Told in short verses. T's story comes through and weaves in with Vincent's.
Jack is trying to save his 2 room school house when a woman from the state education agency comes to judge whether or not they will get a grant to keep them open. Jack is dealing with the death of his little brother and becomes a mentor to the younger kids at school. He decides to speak to the school board but his words were misunderstood.
From Seattle to rural Vermont, notes take flight and find their way to those who need a bit of hope, love, and acceptance. Readers will be inspired to DO SOMETHING to make the world a better place! Ann Braden knows how to write about social issues that affect our youth!

I really enjoyed reading this book by Ann Braden. I felt like I really knew the characters and I loved how they were all woven together. The book also touches on some really tough topics that aren't always seen in books at this level. I'm a middle school librarian and I will definitely be adding this book to my collection and I look forward to sharing it with students and teachers.

Flight of the Puffin follows four different young people as they learn that a little bit of kindness goes a long way as they learn how to cope with whatever life throws at them.

Libby is trying to be different than her family who have a bad reputation at her school.

Vincent is trying to stick up to bullies at his new school. He doesn’t understand why other kids make fun of him for nonsensical reasons.

T is a runaway living on the sidewalk in front of the local church where they can at least get a good dinner every night.

And Jack who is fighting to keep his rural school open, even if he doesn’t understand all of the reasons for wanting it to change.

The four stories come together as Libby starts an initiative as an act of kindness that brings them all together. These puffins don’t fly solo anymore.

Another heartwarming story by Ann Braden that definitely made me tear up at the end. I cannot wait to share this beautiful story with my students.

Oh, my! Just when you think you don't or can't make a difference, a book like Flight of the Puffin comes along and makes you realize the gift of hope can come in the smallest ways. I love The Benefits of Being an Octopus, Ann Braden's debut novel, but this one ranks right up there with it. This gift is being released in May, and I hope you open your heart to receive it.

I completely fell in love with The Benefits of Being an Octopus by Ann Brayden. So when I had a chance to read her newest book, The Flight of the Puffin, I jumped at it. But admittedly, I was hesitant. I mean, I connected so fiercely to Zoey and her mother, how could I possibly find that kind of cosmic reading connection again? Well, I did. And while I’ve been walking around with my Octopus sticker in my notebook ever since I read Ann’s first book, now, I hope to tote a puffin, too.

This book follows the lives of four distinct, yet ultimately connected, characters exploring who they are, who they want to be and how they fit into the world that doesn’t feel welcoming to them. Alternating chapters give an inside view into each character’s reality and leave the reader questioning their own beliefs and potential actions. What would each of us do to make this child feel valued? What unintentional messages might we be sending by doing what we initially feel is right?

I’m not sure how Ann does it, but once again, she wrote straight into my heart and my own relationships. Knowing the pain of what is right, but what is done to keep the peace instead. Knowing the bonds that are forged over the fear of change, rather than the excitement of growing. This book so artfully explores how to remain true to yourself when the world feels like it is against you and to wholeheartedly believe in your bones that you are enough, just the way you are.

And now, if you’ll excuse me, I’m going to go create a fistful of paper love bombs to spread love and kindness, just as Libby did. Because every little act of kindness matters more than we’ll ever know.

https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/43605099-flight-of-the-puffin

Great middle grade book that tells the stories of four middle schoolers who are all facing struggles at home or school and are brought together by the power of kindness! Based in rural Vermont and urban Seattle, readers will easily find a connection to one or more of these characters as they face who they are, speak up for what they believe in, and find ways to persevere with or without the support of their families.

Oh! Ann Braden has once again created characters who will live on in your heart long after the final page.

With a wonderfully woven story told in the POV of multiple characters, FLIGHT OF THE PUFFIN touches on so many angles of what it means to be true to yourself, while also showing the power within and the impact one "small" act can have on others.

An absolutely beautiful story that I could NOT put down once I began reading.

In her second novel, Flight of the Puffin, Ann Braden gently draws her reader into the lives of four young people. The main characters, Libby, Jack, Vincent & T, are relatable as they struggle with real and very different problems. Each character’s situation and geographical location drives narratives that at first seem disparate but become connected through both serendipity and conscious action. In developing their intertwined stories, Braden nurtures a strong message that young people can connect across geographic and philosophical divides to make meaningful differences for each other. Flight of the Puffin felt like a deep dive into the message found Jacqueline’s Woodson’s Each Kindness: the ripples of our deeds, both good and bad, can be impactful in ways that are profound, important and, at first, difficult to imagine. Flight of the Puffin, while geared toward the middle grade reader, will resonate in the hearts of older readers, too.