Seva Reading Group

Birdie
'Birdie' by JP Rose showcases people's struggles with different races and colours. It features a girl who has a black American GI for a father and a White American mother. She faces a great deal of discrimination in this society owing to her skin colour and the writer is trying to tell us that we should not judge people by their appearances. My favourite section is when the children were on a bus and Birdie is bullied by a group of kids for being brown. She hides in a coalmine and is rescued by a pit pony. I found this section of the novel very moving.

Ravneet Kaur

Birdie
The novel 'Birdie' by J P Rose is very sentimental and shows us that unbreakable bonds don't have to be between humans but also between humans and animals. (Mannat)

Mannat

Songs for Ghosts
Song of Ghosts is an interesting and emotional story about a man who becomes heartbroken after a relationship ends. He feels angry, lonely, and depressed, and spends much of his time isolated in his house. One day, while exploring the attic, he discovers a hidden side drawer containing information about a girl who once lived there. This discovery changes everything and leads him on a journey to Japan to uncover the truth about her life. The book keeps readers curious because, as the mystery unfolds, we also learn a great deal about Japanese culture and traditions. For example, the story explains how different bowing angles are used to show respect: a 45-degree bow means “thank you,” a 50-degree bow is used to say “please,” and a 90-degree bow expresses a deep apology. These details make the story feel realistic and educational. Another fascinating aspect of the novel is its exploration of Japanese beliefs and spirituality. The author discusses the idea of Yin and Yang and introduces spirits that emerge and grow more powerful throughout the story. The book also describes the peaceful yet disciplined lives of monks who live high in the mountains, adding a mystical atmosphere to the narrative.

Milanpreet

Fia and the Last Snow Deer  
Fia and the Snowdeer was an exciting journey narrative. I loved the fact that Fia meets a lot of obstacles before she brings the light to her world. The book is written in poetic form which I though was unusual.

TARAN SANDHU