Born in a spruce tree to a proud clan of Clark’s Nutcrackers, Columbina and her brothers spend long winter nights in the nest listening to the elders recite the ancient tales, while in summer they collect the rich seeds of the ancient pines that they depend on for survival.
But Columbina, with her sharp intellect and deep curiosity, begins to question the old ways and traditons of the clan. She befriends others--birds and animals not of her own kind--and learns of the Tall Ones, fearsome creatures from the southland who bring death and destruction. And while her family remains in denial, Columbina realizes the growing peril.
How much is Columbina willing to risk for others? And can she lead them against the danger threatening their common home?
A rich, mythical story told through nonhuman eyes about the bonds of family and the joys of friendship. It may just change the way you see birds forever.
"Enchanting and enlightening. . . . A poignant reminder of the environmental challeges today. Overall, Uplift is a highly recommended read for its captivating narrative and important central message."
--Readers' Favorite 5-star review
"Reading like part ancient myth and part experimental fiction, (Uplift) is a great read for a cold winter's night."
--The Nature Conservancy,
Cool Green Science Holiday Book review 2024
"A compelling and moving story with an important message."
--Marc Bekoff, Ph.D.,
University of Colorado-Boulder,
author of The Emotional Lives of Animals and
Dogs Demystified
"A beautiful portrait of nature's cycles. . . . From the beginning of this thoughtful novel, readers will grasp the the vital interconnectedness of their environment. "
-- BookLife "All A's" review
February 12, 2025
Uplift wins Runner-Up award in Indies Today 2024 book awards (genre: fantasy)
December 7, 2024
"Reading like part ancient myth and part experimental fiction, (Uplift) is a great read for a cold winter's night, transporting you deep into the Rocky Mountains with some of its most fascinating inhabitants."
October 29, 2024
"Jessica Mann's book is a must-read for appreciating how birds sense their world.... A compelling and moving story with an important message."
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