Book Review: Sugar Birds by Cheryl Grey Bostrom

 

Sugar Birds by Cheryl Grey Bostrom - 4.5 Stars 

Sugar Birds is a beautifully written story that combines elements of suspense, emotional depth, and a profound connection to nature. Set in the stunning landscapes of the Pacific Northwest, the book explores themes of survival, healing, and human resilience.

The story follows three central characters: 10-year-old Aggie, who runs away into the forest after accidentally setting a fire that threatens her family’s farm, Aggie's brother Burnaby and Celia, who is visiting her grandmother's nearby farm. Burnaby and Celia eventually meet and have an instant connection together. Celia helps in the search party to find Aggie as she goes missing in the forest for many weeks. We see Aggie's POV as she tries to survive and hide from the others, too afraid to return to the aftermath of what she has done. We also see Celia in a tough situation with a dangerous guy and Burnaby - with a bit of a love triangle as they get to know one another. 

One thing that always stands out to me in Cheryl's books is how she has such rich elements of the natural world. Her descriptions of the forests, rivers, and creatures of the Pacific Northwest are vivid and atmospheric, immersing readers in the beauty and danger of the environment.

This book is also strong in emotional depth. She delves into difficult subjects like grief, guilt, and forgiveness, but she does so with a light, empathetic touch. The book doesn’t shy away from the pain of the characters’ experiences, yet it also offers hope and redemption. There’s a light faith element woven throughout the story that adds a layer of reflection and healing.

I also really loved the portrayal of Burnaby. He is autistic and as an Autism Mama, I loved seeing him as a younger teen and how he interacted with Celia and others in the story. After reading Leaning on Air by this author, which is more of Celia and Burnaby's story, going back to Sugar Birds was a beautiful experience to learn more of how they met and interacted.

I have to say the suspense in this one was very good, we were needing to see how Aggie was doing throughout the story and Cheryl did a good job with the pacing to give enough backdrop of what was happening while our main characters were on the search for her. The ending was fast paced and I liked how it went. 

Overall, Sugar Birds is a heartfelt, deeply moving book that leaves a lasting impression. Readers who enjoy contemporary fiction, character-driven stories, and those who enjoy themes of survival and personal growth will find much to love in this book.

Thank you Tyndale House for a copy of this book to honestly read and review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/6842497256
Amazon: https://amzn.to/4ejYL8T
Baker Book House: https://bakerbookhouse.com/products/522932

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