Sugar Birds by Cheryl Grey Bostrom

In "Sugar Birds," author Cheryl Grey Bostrom crafts a poignant narrative that intertwines the lives of two young girls, Aggie and Celia, against the backdrop of the untamed wilderness of 1985 Northwest Washington State. Through their journeys of loss, forgiveness, and self-discovery, Bostrom weaves a tale that resonates with the complexities of human emotions and the healing power of nature.

Aggie, taught the ways of the northern woods by her father, finds solace in sketching wild bird nests until a tragic fire forces her to flee into the wilderness. Celia, grappling with her parents' breakup, arrives at her grandmother's farm and becomes part of the search party for Aggie. As their paths converge, both girls confront their pasts and discover the transformative effects of forgiveness and connection.

Bostrom's narrative skillfully explores themes of family, resilience, and the human spirit's capacity to heal. Drawing parallels with acclaimed novels like "Under the Magnolias" and "Where the Crawdads Sing," "Sugar Birds" offers a rich tapestry of characters and landscapes that captivate the reader's imagination.

Through vivid descriptions and evocative storytelling, Bostrom creates a world where nature is not just a backdrop but a character in itself, shaping the lives and destinies of those who inhabit it. "Sugar Birds" is a testament to the power of forgiveness and the beauty of second chances, making it a compelling read for fans of literary fiction and coming-of-age stories alike.