Description

"A perfect tale of outcasts, friendship, falconry, and the families we create."—Tui T. Sutherland, New York Times bestselling author of the Wings of Fire series

In the vein of Barbara O’Connor’s Wish, a moving, poignant animal rescue story told in alternating perspectives about a down-on-her-luck girl who rescues a baby owl, and how the two set each other free.

Great horned owl Rufus is eight months old and still can’t hunt. When his mother is hit by a car, he discovers just how dangerous the forest can be.

Reenie has given up on adults and learned how to care for herself—a good thing, since she’s sent to live with an aunt she’s never met in this emotional coming of age story. Yet this aunt has a wonderful secret: she’s a falconer who agrees to help Reenie catch an injured passage hawk in the wild and rehabilitate it.

When Reenie traps bedraggled Rufus, his eyes lock onto her heart, and they form a powerful friendship. But can Rufus learn to trust in the outside world and fly free? And can Reenie open her heart enough to truly soar?

Dual Perspective Story: Told in alternating chapters from the point of view of Reenie, a girl who has given up on adults, and Rufus, a baby owl who has lost his mother. A Heartwarming Found Family: When Reenie is sent to live with her falconer great-aunt, she doesn’t expect to find a home—or a kindred spirit in an injured owl. Falconry and Wildlife Rescue: Discover the world of falconry as Reenie and her aunt work to rehabilitate Rufus and teach him how to survive in the wild. Perfect for Animal Lovers: Fans of Barbara O’Connor’s Wish and stories about the powerful bond between kids and animals will soar through this moving tale.