The Brave - by James Bird (Paperback)

About the Book

A middle-grade novel about a boy with an OCD issue and his move to a reservation to live with his biological mother.

Book Synopsis

Perfect for fans of Rain Reign, this middle-grade novel The Brave is about a boy with an OCD issue and his move to a reservation to live with his biological mother.

Collin can't help himself--he has a unique condition that finds him counting every letter spoken to him. It's a quirk that makes him a prime target for bullies, and a continual frustration to the adults around him, including his father.

When Collin asked to leave yet another school, his dad decides to send him to live in Minnesota with the mother he's never met. She is Ojibwe, and lives on a reservation. Collin arrives in Duluth with his loyal dog, Seven, and quickly finds his mom and his new home to be warm, welcoming, and accepting of his condition.

Collin's quirk is matched by that of his neighbor, Orenda, a girl who lives mostly in her treehouse and believes she is turning into a butterfly. With Orenda's help, Collin works hard to overcome his challenges. His real test comes when he must step up for his new friend and trust his new family.

Review Quotes

A New York Public Library Best Book of 2020

A School Library Journal Best Book of 2020

A Book Riot Best Book of 2020

"This lyrical tale will leave your hopes buoyed, your courage bolstered, and your heart on the lookout for magic. A stunning debut and a novel to cherish." --Katherine Applegate, New York Times-bestselling author of The One and Only Ivan and Wishtree

"An amazing debut full of heart, authenticity, and courage." --School Library Journal, starred review

"Endearingly earnest and with a refusal to shy away from the tough parts of life...this fresh and imaginative story has touches of Bridge to Terabithia and is perfect for fans of Wendy Mass' A Mango-Shaped Space and Sherman Alexie's The Absolutely True Diary of a Part-Time Indian. Bird, himself of Ojibwe descent, has written an exceptional #OwnVoices novel not to be overlooked." --Booklist, starred review

"It's rare to find a book that gives insight into an intensely specific cultural and cognitive experience, yet simultaneously taps something universal: wanting to be accepted for who you are and find where you fit. The Brave does just that, and so much more. I've never read anything like it. Collin is a kid it's impossible not to root for." --Nic Stone, New York Times-bestselling author of Dear Martin

"Bighearted." --The New York Times

About the Author

James Bird is a screenwriter and director at the independent film company, Zombot Pictures; his films include We Are Boats and Honeyglue. A California native of Ojibwe descent, he now lives in Swampscott, Massachusetts with his wife, the author and actor Adriana Mather, and their son. The Brave is his debut novel.