Feathers Together

words by Caron Levis, pictures by Charles Santoso

published by Abrams Book for Young Readers

From the award-winning team behind Ida, Always and This Way, Charlie comes an uplifting story of animal friendship, inspired by a real-life pair of storks whose bond overcame great distance

Best friends Malena and Klepetan always adventure together! The two excitedly prepare to fly thousands of miles for the flock’s annual migration to a warm winter. But when Malena is injured, she stays in Croatia while Klepetan goes to South Africa—and the pair must navigate the turbulent winds of separation for the first time.

Being apart is hard. Malena and Klepetan miss each other achingly, and they have big feelings about adventuring on their own. But even over the vast distance, the two brave explorers discover ways to enjoy their separate seasons while keeping their hearts connected—and their hopes aloft that spring will bring them back together.

**STARRED REVIEW**
"The author draws out the tension in the most delicious way, readers rushing to the end so that the birds can be reunited, and likely there will be no dry eyes in the house when the duo are finally once again nestled next to one another, feathers together. The digital illustrations give marvelous personality to each stork, their every emotion evident and so relatable for readers." - Kirkus Reviews—

**STARRED REVIEW**
"Levis imbues Klepetan and Malena with believably conflicting emotions, while Santoso’s graceful, naturalistic illustrations give the stork pair readable facial expressions that convey hurt, loss, confusion, and resolve. It’s a moving, affirming story of commitment that withstands change." -Publishers Weekly—