The Someday Birds

 

  •   Pla, Sally J; illustrated by McLaughlin, Julie . The Someday Birds. HarperCollins children's book, 2017. Ages 8-12.


Charlie is a 12-year-old Mexican American autistic boy with a love for birds. As someone on the spectrum, Charlie thrives on routine and struggles with a strong dislike for germs. His father is a war journalist who suffers a head injury while on duty, which leaves him with brain damage. Embedded throughout the family story is also a subplot covering the dangers of war and war refugees. Before leaving, Charlie's dad explains, “It's important to tell the stories of the people that get caught up in war and violence. We can't pretend it isn't happening. So I'll be over there, writing it down, for them... To save their stories.” (Pla 186) When his father needs to go to Virginia for specialty treatment, they embark on a road trip to join him. Together with their babysitter/nurse Ludmila, his older sister Davis, and twin younger brothers Jake and Joel, they set out across the US from California to Virginia. Along the way, they decide to go on the hunt for the list of birds Charlie and his dad hope to see someday, which they call the “Someday Birds”.

The plot takes the reused concept of a road trip and puts a fresh, inclusive spin on it. Showcasing the struggles that people on the spectrum face from their break in routine to sensory overload, while highlighting the resiliency of people. The characters are diverse and well-rounded, each with their unique strengths and weaknesses. While Ludmila is not a part of the family, as the story progresses, she becomes part of Charlie’s chosen family. Sally J Pla is also the mother of kids with autism, while having been diagnosed with autism herself after publishing this book. Due to her experiences, she takes care to paint a realistic portrayal of a family living with someone on the spectrum, and while challenges do arise, the characters are balanced and well-rounded: Charlie is more than just an individual with autism. He is also smart, loving, and motivated. Charlie discovers, “You know, it's weird. Before I got pushed down into that black hole of a ride, I was scared to death I would get hurt. And then: I did get hurt. But getting hurt wasn't as bad as being afraid of getting hurt” (Pla 229)
This book is deeply moving and touching. It does an excellent job of tackling complex issues like war, loss, change, and living with autism in a way that is accessible and thoughtful. This work is inclusive and is perfect for middle grades with chapters that aren't too long and are titled after birds. It is a longer read, but the vocabulary and engaging images hold the reader’s attention through Charlie's journey. This is a great read for readers ages 8-12 who love a good road trip or who are looking for a fun read.






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