Manu, the Boy Who Loved Birds
Caren Loebel-Fried
Hardcover
(Latitude 20, May 31, 2020)
On a school trip to Honoluluâs Bishop Museum, Manu and his classmates are excited to see an ancient skirt made with a million yellow feathers from the âĹâĹ, a bird native to Hawaiâi that had gone extinct long ago. Manu knew his full name, ManuâĹâĹmauloa, meant âMay the âĹâĹ bird live onâ but never understood: Why was he named after a native forest bird that no longer existed? Manu told his parents he wanted to know more about âĹâĹ birds and together they searched the internet. The next day, his teacher shared more facts with the class. There was so much to learn! As his mind fills with new discoveries, Manu has vivid dreams of his namesake bird. After a surprise visit to Hawaiâi Island where the family sees native forest birds in their natural setting, Manu finally understands the meaning of his name, and that he can help the birds and promote a healthy forest. Manu, the Boy Who Loved Birds is a story about extinction, conservation, and culture, told through a childâs experience and curiosity. Readers learn along with Manu about the extinct honeyeater for which he was named, his Hawaiian heritage, and the relationship between animals and habitat. An afterword includes in-depth information on Hawaiâiâs forest birds and featherwork in old Hawaiâi, a glossary, and a list of things to do to help. Illustrated with eye-catching, full-color block prints, the book accurately depicts and incorporates natural science and culture in a whimsical way, showing how we can all make a difference for wildlife.
R