By: Jessica Mann
Illustrated by: Steve Habersang
Publication Date: October 30, 2024
ISBN: 979-8350968125
Reviewed by: Diana Coyle
Review Date: October 19, 2026
Columbina, along with her bird brothers, belong to a proud family of Clark’s Nutcrackers that were born high in a spruce tree in the mountains in Uplift by Jessica Mann.
As humans keep altering the forest around them, Columbina knows she must try to change the pattern she is being taught by her family, because if she doesn’t, they will find it harder to survive. She sets out with the hope that if she can change how humans see things around them, as if seeing everything through her eyes, maybe they will stop destroying the environment and begin working together for both birds and humans to coexist. Does Columbina succeed in her endeavor?
This story was such an uplifting and engrossing storyline presented by Jessica Mann. Immediately, I was pulled into the story right from the first page. Reading this storyline from the perspective of a bird named Columbina was not only moving, but completely awe inspiring. I can’t recall another book that was written from a bird’s perspective, and this factor immediately won this my love of the book. To see, feel, and think like Columbina made reading this endearing story a true delight.
It is worth mentioning that Mann wrote the trees, mountains, and other species into the storyline as real, living creatures that had important roles in this story. Each tree, mountain, bird, etc. all played a role in having the world continue to prosper for generations to come. Many people just see a tree as simply that – a tree. After reading Mann’s book, it gives readers a new perspective that we shouldn’t take anything for granted that is living around us. We all depend on each other, no matter human or environmental, to continue the circle of life. We are only hurting ourselves if we believe we are the only important species in the world. Every tree, bird, bug, or mountain has their role to play in this world. Who do we think we are to believe that we are the most important species in this world? After reading this story, readers will walk away with compassion for wildlife and the environment around them.
Jessica Mann is an award-winning author and naturalist who writes realistic animal fiction. Her goal is to entertain and inspire her readers to see life through the eyes of wild birds and animals. She has had a 35-year career in environmental health and safety, and this has shaped her perspective to help others see how the environment, and all that live and breathe in it, have important roles in this world.
Quill says: Uplift is one story that will entertain readers of all ages. It allows the readers to not only see the world around them through Columbina’s eyes, but also the trees and mountains too. If you love reading nature books, especially ones written from an animal’s perspective, you need to read this book. Well done, Ms. Mann!
For more information about Uplift, please visit the author's website at: jessicamann.org
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