Indies Introduce

Middle Grade

• 
  The Boy, the Bird, & the Coffin Maker, Matilda Woods
  Philomel Books, 9780525515210, May 15, 2018 (Middle Grade)
  

  “A gentle tale—with a healthy dose of magic—about friendship, hope, and looking to the future. It reads like a newly discovered folktale that, once found, becomes essential. Sure to delight questing readers of all ages.”

  Sam Miller, Carmichael’s Bookstore (Louisville, KY)
  
  

  “Alberto is a gifted wood carver who creates beautiful objects, including toys for his children, but when a sickness hits his mystical little town and kills his family, he must use his gift to carve coffins. Alberto, now having nothing to live for, waits out his days by making coffins for the townsfolk and even for himself, until a bird named Fia flies into his house accompanied by a hungry boy named Tito. Alberto eventually takes them both in, cares for them, and starts to carve again. But evil has followed Tito, and it’s up to Alberto, Fia, and their belief in fairy tales to save him. This story shows how even in the grimmest of times, there’s still hope for a better future.”

  Holly Alexander, The Book Stall (Winnetka, IL)