Author: Cynthia T. Toney
Publisher: Write Integrity Press
Age Range: 12 – 16 years
The final book in the BirdFace series did not disappoint. I found it to be a satisfying end to the four book series. I loved the author’s note at the end of the story that main character, Wendy, was going to be let loose “to find her own way and become the young woman she wants to be…” It felt right to complete the series in this way. We’ve read about Wendy through her early to mid teen years, and this just seemed to be the right time to let her go.
The story begins with Wendy flying off for a summer adventure in Alaska, While in Alaska, Wendy navigates romantic entanglements, friendship and family problems, and cute little wolf pups to care for.
Author Cynthia T Toney has a talent for storytelling and focuses on what young teens are interested in. In this story, she also explores the serious issues of Alzheimer’s disease, and secrecy in Adoption. This book was an easy read, and contained fewer sidelines and intersecting stories than previous books. I enjoyed it nonetheless, and still marvel at how Cynthia T Toney is able to weave and craft her books together in what seems to be an effortless way.
I admit to smiling to myself during the book as Wendy sits in a padded chair and ‘counsels’ her friend. In a moment of insight, Wendy wonders if she might become a psychologist. I have thought more than once that Wendy would make a great social worker or psychologist because she seems naturally drawn to people, their problems and helping them to find solutions.
Spirituality and religious faith are more prominent in this story than the previous books. Wendy prays more than once throughout the story, and her prayers are answered. Her new Jewish friends share aspects of their faith which is a great way to introduce Jewish faith to young readers. In the story, religiosity appears to be the cause of tension and sadness within a Jewish family. But the family’s love for each other eventually overcomes the challenges they face, and stronger relationships are forged as a result.
The BirdFace series has been an interesting series to read. Characters and situations are very real and often imperfect, but redemption is always found by story’s end. I like that Wendy’s religious faith is used to sustain her through difficult times, and ultimately brings about a satisfying conclusion. Wendy eventually returns home and many of the minor characters in the series welcome her at the airport, making it an enjoyable and very fitting ending.
I recommend this book, and the whole four books of the Birdface series.
You can find another BirdFace book review HERE. And purchase the book HERE.