about uplift
Born high in a spruce tree, Columbina and her brothers grow up listening to ancestral tales through long winters and harvesting pine seeds in summer. But Columbina begins to question her clan's traditions and forms bonds with creatures beyond her species. When she uncovers a looming threat from the mysterious Tall Ones, she must decide how far she'll go to protect her world.
A richly imaginative novel told through avian eyes, UPLIFT explores the strength of community, the power of interconnection, and the impact of environmental change.
AWARDS
praise for uplift
"A riveting must-read for everyone who wants to know what birds are thinking and feeling . . . . A compelling and moving story with an important message."
—Psychology Today
"Enchanting and enlightening. . . . A poignant reminder of the environmental challenges of today. Highly recommended read for its captivating narrative and important central message."
—Readers' Favorite
“A deeply imaginative and thought-provoking novel … An excellent read for nature lovers, families, and anyone looking for a tale with heart and purpose. A standout novel that deserves to be cherished and shared.”
—IBPA Book Awards
“Reading like part ancient myth and part experimental fiction, Uplift is a great read for a cold winter’s night.”
—The Nature Conservancy
June 19, 2025
Uplift wins two awards at NIEA
Uplift won awards in two categories from the National Indie Excellence Awards! The book was Winner in the cross-genre category; and Finalist in the nature category.
NIEA is proud to be a champion of self-publishing and small independent presses that go the extra mile to produce books of excellence.
May 16, 2025
Uplift wins Silver in IBPA book awards
Uplift was awarded the Silver medal in the Independent Book Publisher’s Association book awards! IBPA is the largest association for independent publishers in the country, and their book awards are regarded as one of the highest national honors for independent publishers.
February 12, 2025
UPLIFT wins "Indies Today" book award
Uplift wins Runner-Up award in Indies Today 2024 book awards (genre: fantasy)
December 7, 2024
uplift listed in the Nature Conservancy holiday books
"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
uplift featured in psychology today
"Jessica Mann's book is a must-read for appreciating how birds sense their world.... A compelling and moving story with an important message."