Review by Publisher's Weekly Review
In a straightforward social tale from Anderson (Neither), Singy and Squawky, Tappy and Flappy, and Chippy and Flippy all live in the same verdant tree, singing, dancing, and playing ball. As each colorful pair noisily interacts, polka-dotted Only--"the only bird who watched from a distance"--sits solo in the branches, gazing outward, reading a book, and journaling. Overtures to join the group are rebuffed: "Whew! That was too much!" exclaims Only after the noisy group descends with an invitation to play bird ball. Instead, Only begins building a "quiet nest" furnished with books, craft supplies, headphones, and a leaf tent ("Sounds like Only likes being lonely," one bird comments). After the nest is complete and its circular door closed, Only exclaims with satisfaction and relief, "Finally! It's only me." When Squawky drops by, the two enjoy a mellower interaction, and the others soon follow as Only sets boundaries and makes it clear that solitude is not the same thing as loneliness. Round lines and shape-based art clearly convey Only's needs and the peace of the sensory corner, while speech balloons note subtle nuances around interpersonal interaction. Ages 4--8. (Feb.)
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Review by School Library Journal Review
PreS-Gr 2--This sweet, straightforward story introduces young readers to the idea that individuals with different personalities can still be the best of friends. The cast of characters here is a candy-hued flock of birds with exuberant personalities that live up to names like Squawky and Flappy, except for one: Only, a pink bird who prefers quiet time alone. Eager to ensure the well-being of their quiet friend, the other well-intentioned birds try to engage Only in singing and games, and are puzzled when Only builds a nest as a retreat after becoming exhausted with their rambunctious playing. Eventually, the other birds give Only's gentle ways a try, and a harmonious balance of activities is achieved with every bird feeling included. The bulk of the book's prose is dialogue presented in comic book word bubbles, making for an animated story time or classroom read-aloud. Brightly colored illustrations rendered in gouache on hot press watercolor paper have cheerful patterns and texture that complement the positive tone of the story. VERDICT Affirming for introverts and extroverts, this feel-good animal story invites discussion about empathy and friendship. A welcome purchase for most picture book collections.--Allison Tran
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Review by Kirkus Book Review
Being alone doesn't necessarily mean being lonely. A bird named Only loves to spend time alone, reading and watching neighbors from afar. The other birds invite Only to dance, sing, and play bird ball with them. But Only flies off to build a cozy nest; the others conclude that Only likes being lonely ("Sounds terrible!" one remarks). Then loud Squawky, who doesn't want to play bird ball today, shows up at Only's door and discovers that quiet time is fun as the two read, paint, and listen to music through earphones. Only teaches Squawky to tweet softly, and soon the pair are singing joyfully--and quietly. The other birds overhear and are surprised that Only can sing--"We thought you wanted to be quiet!" "And alone!" "And lonely!" Only confesses that singing is enjoyable--sometimes--while Squawky allows that being quiet is, too…sometimes. Everyone gives the quiet nest a try. Thereafter, the birds' lives are a mixture of chatter, quietness, togetherness, and aloneness. But loneliness? Never! This sweet, gentle story reassures children who cherish contemplative moments that they don't have to abandon lively times with pals. The colorful, adorable gouache illustrations capture the birds' personalities. The artwork appears in graphic novel--like panels, and characters speak in speech bubbles. Proof that you can have the best of both worlds: quiet solitude and boisterous time with friends. (Picture book. 4-7) Copyright (c) Kirkus Reviews, used with permission.
Copyright (c) Kirkus Reviews, used with permission.
