A Boy Is Not a Bird

Opening in the summer of 1940, as Russian Communists take over 11-year-old Natt’s hometown, Zastavna , this well-paced novel from Ravel (The Cat) follows Natt’s loving family and supportive Jewish community through increasingly invasive changes. As the months progress, he loses his home, town, and, finally, his country when he and his mother are among those deported to Siberia in the summer of 1941. Aptly describing himself as a “go-along-type of boy,” multilingual Natt initially focuses on how each change affects his daily routines and comforts: when Russian teachers replace their strict instructor, for example, Natt and his best friend Max—whose friendship is warmly, credibly depicted—are delighted. Natt enthusiastically takes on the opportunity to shine as a Pioneer, loyal to Stalin and the Communist cause, but his naiveté slowly fades as deprivations and cruelties intensify. With a big heart and developing intellect, Natt is an endearing figure, and secondary characters are equally well drawn, especially his eternally optimistic mother. The final scene leaves Natt’s future unresolved, but back matter explains that the novel, based on the experiences of Ravel’s fifth grade teacher, is the first title in a planned trilogy. Ages 9–12. [em](Sept.) [/em]