Nelly the Very Different Bird

By Author / Illustrator

Alex Macdonald

Genre

Representation & Inclusion

Age range(s)

Publisher

Frances Lincoln Children's Books

ISBN

9781836000754

Format

Paperback / softback

Published

05-06-2025

Synopsis

Being different can be the start of the greatest adventure. Nelly the Very Different Bird is a heart-warming and hilarious story about embracing your uniqueness and finding the courage to create your own path.

Nelly is a very different bird - she can't fly! So, when all the other birds take to the skies to migrate for winter, Nelly has to stay behind. But instead of feeling left out, she embarks on her own exciting journey, discovering new and wonderful ways to celebrate what makes her unique.

One day, Nelly meets another bird who also cannot fly. Using all that she's learned, Nelly helps her new friend discover how to be their own kind of bird too. Together, they realise that being different isn't just okay - it's an incredible adventure, especially when shared with a friend.

This funny and uplifting picture book is a celebration of self-discovery, the power of friendship, and the joy of finding your own way in the world.

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Reviews

Louise

Nelly is a bird who can't fly, but that doesn't stop her. When her flock migrates without her, Nelly doesn't despair. She sets off on a whirlwind journey of her own, crossing oceans, climbing mountains, and braving deserts - all in pursuit of her feathered friends. But when she finally catches up, the flock is already turning back. This time, though, Nelly isn't alone. With new friends and newfound wisdom, she leads the way home, proving that being different can take you places you never imagined.

Nelly the Very Different Bird is a super book to share with children aged five plus or in a Year 1 class or PSHE session to support conversations and develop awareness of being different. That difference is empowering and to be celebrated. A quirky and uplifting tale about resilience, adventure, and the beautiful power of being yourself.