Duet: Our Journey in Song with the Northern Mockingbird (Hardcover) (ISBN-13: 9780374388775)

The story of the impactful partnership between humans and mockingbirds, both scientifically and culturally over the centuries, written for young adults by award-winning nonfiction powerhouse Phil Hoose.

The Northern mockingbird's brilliant song--a loud, bright, liquid sampling of musical notes and phrases--has made it a beloved companion and the official bird of five states. Many of our favorite songs and poems feature mockingbirds.

Mockingbirds have been companions to humans for centuries. Many Native American myths and legends feature mockingbirds, often teaching humans to speak. Thomas Jefferson's mockingbird, "Dick", was the first White House pet. John James Audubon's portrait of a rattlesnake raiding a mockingbird's nest sparked outrage in the world of art. Atticus Finch's somber warning to his children, "Remember, it's a sin to kill a Mockingbird," is known throughout the world. Some jazz musicians credit mockingbirds with teaching them a four-note call that says, "Break's over." And mockingjays--a hybrid between jabberjays and mockers--are a symbol of the rebel cause in the Hunger Games trilogy.

But in the early 1900s the mocker was plummeting toward extinction. Too many had been trapped, sold, and caged. Something had to be done. To the rescue came a powerful and determined group of women.

Now, National Book Award and Newbery honor-winner Phillip Hoose brings the story of the important and overlooked connection between humans and mockingbirds--past, present, and future. It is the third volume of his bird trilogy.

Duet is a study in the power of song. As author Steve Sheinkin puts it, "This book will change how you listen to the world."

Author: Phillip Hoose
ISBN-10: 0374388776
ISBN-13: 9780374388775
Publisher: Farrar, Straus and Giroux (Byr)
Language: English
Published: 09/13/2022
Pages: 160
Format: Hardcover
Weight: 1.10lbs
Size: 9.90h x 6.80w x 0.50d

Review Citation(s):
Kirkus Reviews 07/15/2022
Bulletin of Ctr for Child Bks 09/01/2022
Publishers Weekly 08/08/2022
Booklist 08/01/2022 pg. 45
Horn Book Magazine 09/01/2022 pg. 106
School Library Journal 10/01/2022 pg. 100
Hornbook Guide to Children 07/01/2022 - Superior,Well Above Average