Whimsy is for the birds, and for us!

Other Birds by Sarah Addison Allen

St. Martin’s Press, August 30, 2022

304 Pages

This book was given to me and I asked no questions about it. I read it on faith of a good recommendation and went in with no expectations - a lovely way to enter a foreign world. And I am so glad that I did, because this story is as sweet as a marshmallow and not anything I would have stumbled upon myself! Whimsical and cute, Allen takes us into a mysterious and sweet journey into learning about ourselves and finding support where we least expect it. Reading this felt like a hug from a new friend - light, airy and fun.

There isn’t a character in this book that is unlikeable. Certainly, Allen could ressurect any of these residents and give us a peek into their lives and vantage points. Even the recluse is fascinating and entertaining. They are all so real and relatable. My favorites are Mac and Charlotte - an obvious choice to anyone who has read this title. There is so much activity throughout the novel, but the storytelling is superb. You truly feel as though you are one of the residents watching all the comings and goings of neighbors - avian and human.

This is a delightful quick read, perfect for reading after a heavier novel, that left me with a smile. Even looking back on it, I’m smiling thinking of Mac hiding the cornmeal falling throughout his apartment and not knowing what to do with Charlotte. Thank you Sarah Addison Allen for giving us this peek into whimsy and a lovely tale worth telling.

To Read or Not to Read: READ

3 Quills