A Cage Went in Search of a Bird

Starred review from March 15, 2017
It is common to associate cages with imprisonment, but what of the cage's point of view?The book's title is an aphorism attributed to Franz Kafka; it clearly stimulated a flight of fancy in Fagan. He banishes his subject to an attic corner where it feels -useless and unwanted.- Despite admonishments from the suitcase and guitar, the cage maneuvers itself to the window and jumps. Decorated with heart-shaped scrollwork, this wrought-iron home longs for an inhabitant. It strikes up conversations with all the birds that happen by, from a hummingbird to an owl, trying to persuade them of the merits of caged life. Blues and oranges dominate Erfanian's vibrant illustrations. The flowers that grace the rolling hills and the texture applied to the wooded backgrounds create a cozy tapestry effect further enhanced by the soft edges produced by the acrylic and oil pastels. Each wild creature rejects the cage's logic, and after a lonely night, there is a discernable difference in its approach to the frightened bird that lands nearby. The cage listens to the pet's tale of abandonment without pressure, simply keeping it company. Ultimately, an invitation is extended: -Do not worry anymore. Hop inside where it is warm and safe. For I have come to save you. And you have come to save me.- An original and thought-provoking exploration of the rhythms of friendship. (Picture book. 4-7)

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June 1, 2017

PreS-Gr 2-In this story, with its title taken from an aphorism by Franz Kafka, a discarded birdcage in a dusty attic finds its way outside, hoping to meet its destiny. In the fresh air, the cage tries to tempt a series of birds to call it home, but they are content with their freedom, their warm nests, and the space they need. When the cage meets a canary, it is a match; the canary was set free by its owner and longs for the comforts of a cage in a home. "Dear bird...do not worry anymore...For I have come to save you. And you have come to save me." This reassuring conclusion leaves an unanswered question: How will the bird and the cage get back inside to safety? Readers will be satisfied nonetheless. Fagan's simple prose and his deft characterization of an inanimate object-the cage produces a "mighty heave" to get up a hill, "bang[s] its door open and shut" to get attention, and always asks, "Dear bird, wouldn't you like to come inside?"-are charming and believable. Erfanian's richly colored full-spread acrylic paintings are bold and whimsical. VERDICT A lovely storytime or lapsit selection for deep thinkers and connection makers. Pair with Bernadette Watts's St. Francis and the Proud Crow for a conversation about home.-Lisa Lehmuller, Paul Cuffee Maritime Charter School, Providence

Copyright 2017 School Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.

May 1, 2017
Grades K-2 An aphorism by Franz Kafka might not be the most obvious inspiration for a picture book, but a literal interpretation of the famous quote provides the heart of this whimsical story about two lonely souls seeking friendship. Driven by a need for meaningful existence, a discarded birdcage escapes the attic in which it has been abandoned. Rolling about town, its offers of refuge are rejected by one bird after anothera cage can provide nothing for creatures who already have everything they need, after all. But finally, a small songbird turned out by an uncaring owner lands nearby, and it seems that both cage and bird have found their purpose. Boldly illustrated in a folk art style with acrylic and oil pastel, the pages are a riot of saturated colors. Contrasting shades of cool blues and fiery oranges are used to maximum effect, and the block printstyle patterns and stylized birds provide vibrant energy throughout. While the story itself is a familiar one, its visual treatment is anything but.(Reprinted with permission of Booklist, copyright 2017, American Library Association.)